The Senate on this Tuesday gave swift approval to legislation that will require the publication of official records concerning the deceased sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, after a overwhelming vote in the lower house and a shift by Donald Trump and his GOP allies. The administration relented after months of trying to forestall the joint action involving a controversy that has followed the president since his return to the White House.
Swift Approval in Both Chambers
Senators proceeded by unanimous consent, which requires approval from each senator but avoids a formal roll call vote, accelerating the process. Just before, the House overwhelmingly approved the bill on a 427-1 tally.
Citizens have been patient long enough. The survivors have waited long enough,” Chuck Schumer stated in a address to the chamber on Tuesday, before requesting the Senate to pass it unanimously. “Let the truth come out. Ensure full disclosure.”
Presidential Signature
The measure next goes to Donald Trump for his approval. Trump stated on the previous day that he would approve the bill.
Even though Trump has for months downplayed the outcry over the authorities' approach of the Epstein case as a “political stunt”, he signalled his support for the House bill over the weekend, and said he would sign the measure if it is presented to him.
Reaction
Opposition lawmakers, along with survivors of Epstein and their supporters who were watching from a public section, applauded after the bill was enacted. The only opposition came from Clay Higgins, who said he worried the measure would reveal personal information of individuals involved, potential suspects and others caught up in the investigation.
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