The Senate on Tuesday quickly approved to legislation that will require the publication of investigative files related to the deceased pedophile Jeffrey Epstein, after a overwhelming vote in the US House of Representatives and a reversal by the president and his Republican allies. The administration relented after an extended period of trying to forestall the joint action involving a scandal that has plagued the president since his comeback to the White House.
Unanimous Passage in Congress
Senators proceeded by unanimous consent, which requires approval from each senator but avoids a formal roll call vote, expediting the process. Earlier that day, the House overwhelmingly approved the bill on a massive majority.
The public have endured sufficient delay. Those affected have waited long enough,” Chuck Schumer said in a address to the chamber on Tuesday, before asking the chamber to approve it without opposition. “Let the truth come out. Allow openness to prevail.”
Presidential Signature
The measure next goes to Trump for his endorsement. Trump signaled on the previous day that he would endorse the legislation.
Though Trump has for months dismissed the outcry over the official management of the Epstein case as a “political stunt”, he voiced approval for the measure over the past few days, and announced he would approve it if it is presented to him.
Support and Opposition
Opposition lawmakers, along with survivors of Epstein and their representatives who were seated in a public section, applauded after the bill was enacted. The only opposition came from a Louisiana Republican, who expressed concern he worried the measure would disclose identifying details of individuals involved, potential suspects and others involved in the investigation.
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