The upper chamber of Congress on this Tuesday quickly approved to legislation that will mandate the disclosure 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 the president and his Republican allies. The administration relented after months of trying to forestall the joint action involving a scandal that has dogged the president since his return to the White House.
Expedited Passage in Congress
Senators proceeded by consensus, which needs acceptance from each senator but does not require a recorded vote, expediting the process. Earlier that day, the House voted decisively for the bill on a near-unanimous vote.
“The American people have endured sufficient delay. Those affected have suffered long enough,” the Senate Democratic leader stated in a address to the chamber on Tuesday, before requesting the Senate to approve it without opposition. “Reveal the truth. Ensure full disclosure.”
Next Steps
The bill next heads to Trump for his endorsement. He signaled on the previous day that he would endorse the legislation.
Although Trump has for months rejected the outcry over the official management of the Epstein case as a “political stunt”, he signalled his support for the legislation over the past few days, and stated he would give his assent if it is presented to him.
Reaction
Opposition lawmakers, along with those affected and their representatives who were present in a House gallery, applauded after the bill was approved. The only opposition came from a Louisiana Republican, who expressed concern he feared the measure would disclose specific data of witnesses, those under scrutiny and others implicated in the investigation.
Other Headlines
- The president is under fire for labeling a journalist as ‘piggy’ during a clash onboard Air Force One.
- Federal judge blocks ‘discriminatory’ maps in the state of Texas that gave Republicans extra districts.
- Many of Department of Education's responsibilities reassigned to other federal departments as part of administration efforts.
- Raids move to North Carolina capital, with local officials noting ongoing activities.
