The Senate on Tuesday quickly approved to a bill that will mandate the disclosure of investigative files associated with the late sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, after a overwhelming vote in the US House of Representatives and a change of position by Donald Trump and his GOP allies. The White House relented after months of trying to delay the joint action involving a scandal that has followed the president since his return to the White House.
Expedited Passage in Both Chambers
Senators proceeded by consensus, which needs acceptance from each senator but does not require a recorded vote, speeding up the process. Hours earlier, the House passed by a huge margin the bill on a massive majority.
Citizens have endured sufficient delay. Those affected have suffered long enough,” the top Senate Democrat declared in a floor speech on Tuesday, before requesting the Senate to adopt it by consent. “Uncover the facts. Let transparency reign.”
Future Action
This legislation next goes to Donald Trump for his approval. Trump stated on Monday that he would approve the bill.
Even though Trump has for months dismissed the controversy over the official management of the investigation as a “false narrative”, he expressed his backing for the House bill over the past few days, and stated he would give his assent if it reaches his desk.
Reaction
The Democratic party, along with victims and their supporters who were seated in a House gallery, broke into applause after the bill was passed. The sole “no” vote came from Clay Higgins, who said he was concerned the measure would make public personal information of people, potential suspects and others involved in the investigation.
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