The Senate on this Tuesday passed without delay to a measure that will force the release of investigative files associated with the deceased sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, after a overwhelming vote in the lower house and a change of position by Donald Trump and his Republican allies. The administration changed course after an extended period of trying to forestall the cross-party initiative involving a case that has plagued the president since his comeback to the White House.
Unanimous Passage in Congress
The Senate acted by consensus, 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 been patient long enough. The survivors have suffered long enough,” Chuck Schumer said in a address to the chamber on Tuesday, before asking the chamber to approve it without opposition. “Reveal the truth. Allow openness to prevail.”
Presidential Signature
This legislation next goes to the president for his approval. He indicated on Monday that he would endorse the legislation.
Though Trump has for an extended period downplayed the controversy over the official management of the investigation as a “political stunt”, he signalled his support for the legislation over the weekend, and stated he would approve it if it reaches his desk.
Support and Opposition
Opposition lawmakers, along with survivors of Epstein and their supporters who were watching from a viewing area, applauded after the bill was approved. The sole “no” vote came from a GOP representative, who stated he feared the measure would make public personal information of individuals involved, potential suspects and others involved in the investigation.
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