The Senate on this Tuesday quickly approved to legislation that will mandate the disclosure of investigative files concerning the late pedophile Jeffrey Epstein, after a almost unanimous vote in the lower house and a change of position by the president and his Republican allies. The administration gave in after an extended period of trying to block the bipartisan effort involving a scandal that has followed the president since his comeback to the White House.
Expedited Passage in Congress
Senators proceeded by unanimous consent, which requires approval from each senator but avoids a formal roll call vote, speeding up the process. Just before, the House overwhelmingly approved the bill on a 427-1 tally.
Citizens have been patient long enough. Those affected have waited patiently,” the Senate Democratic leader stated in a floor speech on Tuesday, before asking the chamber to pass it unanimously. “Uncover the facts. Allow openness to prevail.”
Next Steps
This legislation next goes to Donald Trump for his approval. He signaled on Monday that he would sign the measure.
Even though the president has for months rejected the outcry over the authorities' approach of the Epstein case as a “political stunt”, he signalled his support for the legislation over the past few days, and said he would give his assent if it is presented to him.
Reaction
The Democratic party, along with survivors of Epstein and their supporters who were present in a viewing area, cheered after the bill was enacted. Lone dissent came from a Louisiana Republican, who said he worried the measure would disclose identifying details of people, those under scrutiny and others implicated in the investigation.
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