The Senate on Tuesday passed without delay to a bill that will require the publication of investigative files related to the deceased pedophile Jeffrey Epstein, following a overwhelming vote in the US House of Representatives and a change of position by the president and his Republican allies. The administration gave in after an extended period of trying to forestall the joint action involving a controversy that has dogged the president since his comeback to the White House.
Swift Approval in Both Chambers
Senators proceeded by unanimous consent, which requires approval from each senator but does not require a formal roll call vote, expediting the process. Earlier that day, the House passed by a huge margin the bill on a 427-1 tally.
“The American people have endured sufficient delay. Jeffrey Epstein’s victims have waited patiently,” the Senate Democratic leader stated in a floor speech on Tuesday, before asking the Senate to approve it without opposition. “Let the truth come out. Ensure full disclosure.”
Future Action
The bill next heads to Donald Trump for his approval. He signaled on Monday that he would approve the bill.
Although Trump has for an extended period downplayed the outcry over the government’s handling of the Epstein case as a “false narrative”, he expressed his backing for the House bill over the weekend, and stated he would approve it if it comes to him.
Support and Opposition
The Democratic party, along with those affected and their representatives who were seated in a viewing area, cheered after the bill was approved. The only opposition came from Clay Higgins, who said he feared the measure would reveal identifying details of individuals involved, potential suspects and others implicated in the investigation.
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