The Senate on this Tuesday passed without delay to a measure that will mandate the disclosure of case documents concerning the deceased sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, after a almost unanimous vote in the US House of Representatives and a change of position by Donald Trump and his Republican allies. The administration relented after an extended period of trying to delay the bipartisan effort involving a controversy that has followed the president since his return to the White House.
Expedited Approval in Both Chambers
Senators proceeded by general agreement, which requires approval from each senator but avoids a formal roll call vote, expediting the process. Earlier that day, the House passed by a huge margin the bill on a near-unanimous vote.
The public have waited long enough. Jeffrey Epstein’s victims have waited long enough,” the top Senate Democrat stated in a floor speech on Tuesday, before urging the chamber to approve it without opposition. “Reveal the truth. Allow openness to prevail.”
Next Steps
This legislation next will be sent to Donald Trump for his approval. He indicated on the previous day that he would approve the bill.
Although Trump has for months downplayed the controversy over the authorities' approach of the investigation as a “Democrat hoax”, he voiced approval for the measure over the weekend, and stated he would approve it if it reaches his desk.
Response
The Democratic party, along with those affected and their advocates who were present in a viewing area, cheered after the bill was passed. The only opposition came from a GOP representative, who expressed concern he was concerned the measure would reveal specific data of individuals involved, persons of interest and others implicated in the investigation.
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