The upper chamber of Congress on Tuesday quickly approved to a bill that will require the publication of official records concerning the late sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, following a overwhelming vote in the US House of Representatives and a change of position by Donald Trump and his GOP allies. The administration changed course after an extended period of trying to delay the bipartisan effort involving a case that has dogged the president since his return to the White House.
Expedited Passage in Both Chambers
The Senate acted by consensus, which requires approval from each senator but avoids a individual voting process, expediting the process. Earlier that day, the House voted decisively for the bill on a massive majority.
Citizens have been patient long enough. Those affected have waited patiently,” the top Senate Democrat said in a floor speech on Tuesday, before asking the chamber to pass it unanimously. “Uncover the facts. Ensure full disclosure.”
Presidential Signature
The bill next heads to Trump for his endorsement. Trump indicated on the previous day that he would sign the measure.
Though the president has for an extended period downplayed the uproar over the official management of the Epstein case as a “false narrative”, he signalled his support for the measure over the past few days, and announced he would sign the measure if it reaches his desk.
Response
The Democratic party, along with survivors of Epstein and their advocates who were watching from a House gallery, cheered after the bill was enacted. The only opposition came from Clay Higgins, who stated he was concerned the measure would reveal identifying details of people, potential suspects and others implicated in the investigation.
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