The Senate on this Tuesday gave swift approval to a measure that will force the release of case documents related to the deceased pedophile Jeffrey Epstein, following a overwhelming vote in the US House of Representatives and a shift by the president and his Republican allies. The administration relented after an extended period of trying to forestall the bipartisan effort involving a controversy that has followed the president since his comeback to the White House.
Swift Approval in Both Chambers
The Senate acted by consensus, which requires approval from each senator but does not require a recorded vote, speeding up the process. Earlier that day, the House passed by a huge margin the bill on a massive majority.
“The American people have waited long enough. Those affected have waited patiently,” the Senate Democratic leader declared in a floor speech on Tuesday, before asking the Senate to pass it unanimously. “Reveal the truth. Ensure full disclosure.”
Next Steps
The measure next heads to the president for his endorsement. Trump stated on the previous day that he would sign the measure.
Even though the president has for months rejected the uproar over the government’s handling of the scandal as a “false narrative”, he signalled his support for the legislation over the weekend, and announced he would give his assent if it reaches his desk.
Reaction
Opposition lawmakers, along with victims and their advocates who were present in a House gallery, applauded after the bill was approved. Lone dissent came from a GOP representative, who expressed concern he was concerned the measure would make public specific data of people, persons of interest and others involved in the investigation.
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