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 almost unanimous vote in the US House of Representatives and a shift by Donald Trump and his GOP allies. The administration gave in after months of trying to block the joint action involving a controversy that has plagued the president since his comeback to the White House.
Expedited Passage in Both Chambers
Senators proceeded by consensus, which needs acceptance from each senator but does not require a recorded vote, expediting the process. Earlier that day, the House voted decisively for the bill on a 427-1 tally.
The public have been patient long enough. Jeffrey Epstein’s victims have suffered long enough,” the Senate Democratic leader stated in a floor speech on Tuesday, before urging the Senate to pass it unanimously. “Reveal the truth. Ensure full disclosure.”
Future Action
The bill next will be sent to the president for his endorsement. Trump stated on the previous day that he would sign the measure.
Though the president has for an extended period dismissed the outcry over the government’s handling of the Epstein case as a “Democrat hoax”, he voiced approval for the House bill over the past few days, and announced he would approve it if it is presented to him.
Response
The Democratic party, along with survivors of Epstein and their supporters who were watching from a House gallery, broke into applause after the bill was passed. Lone dissent came from a Louisiana Republican, who expressed concern he worried the measure would disclose personal information of individuals involved, potential suspects and others implicated in the investigation.
Additional Headlines
- Trump faces criticism for referring to a female Bloomberg reporter as ‘piggy’ during a confrontation aboard Air Force One.
- Federal judge rejects ‘racially gerrymandered’ maps in Texas that awarded GOP extra districts.
- Many of Department of Education's responsibilities reassigned to other federal departments as part of administration efforts.
- Large-scale operations extend to the state's capital, with local officials noting ongoing activities.
