The Senate on Tuesday quickly approved to a bill that will require the publication of case documents related to the deceased sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, following a overwhelming vote in the House of Representatives and a change of position by the president and his GOP allies. Trump's team gave in after months of trying to forestall the cross-party initiative involving a controversy that has plagued the president since his comeback to the White House.
Swift Approval in Congress
Senators proceeded by unanimous consent, which needs acceptance from each senator but does not require a recorded vote, speeding up the process. Earlier that day, the House voted decisively for the bill on a 427-1 tally.
The public have waited long enough. Those affected have waited long enough,” the top Senate Democrat declared in a Senate remarks on Tuesday, before requesting the chamber to approve it without opposition. “Uncover the facts. Allow openness to prevail.”
Next Steps
The measure next will be sent to the president for his endorsement. The president signaled on the previous day that he would endorse the legislation.
Though the president has for months dismissed the outcry over the authorities' approach of the scandal as a “political stunt”, he signalled his support for the measure over the past few days, and announced he would approve it if it reaches his desk.
Support and Opposition
Democrats, along with survivors of Epstein and their representatives who were present in a viewing area, broke into applause after the bill was enacted. Lone dissent came from Clay Higgins, who stated he was concerned the measure would make public specific data of individuals involved, those under scrutiny and others involved in the investigation.
Additional News Updates
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