The Senate on Tuesday gave swift approval to legislation that will require the publication of case documents related to the late sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, following a overwhelming vote in the House of Representatives and a shift by the president and his Republican allies. Trump's team changed course after months of trying to block the joint action involving a case that has followed the president since his return to the White House.
Unanimous Passage in Congress
Senators proceeded by general agreement, which requires approval from each senator but avoids a recorded vote, speeding up the process. Earlier that day, the House passed by a huge margin the bill on a 427-1 tally.
The public have been patient long enough. Those affected have waited long enough,” the top Senate Democrat stated in a floor speech on Tuesday, before requesting the Senate to pass it unanimously. “Uncover the facts. Let transparency reign.”
Presidential Signature
This legislation next heads to the president for his endorsement. He signaled on Monday that he would sign the measure.
Though Trump has for an extended period downplayed the controversy over the official management of the investigation as a “Democrat hoax”, he expressed his backing for the House bill over the past few days, and said he would give his assent if it reaches his desk.
Reaction
The Democratic party, along with those affected and their supporters who were present in a House gallery, broke into applause after the bill was enacted. The only opposition came from a Louisiana Republican, who said he feared the measure would make public specific data of individuals involved, persons of interest and others implicated in the investigation.
Additional News Updates
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- A significant number of US education agency’s powers moved to different agencies as part of White House efforts.
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