The Senate on Tuesday gave swift approval to a measure that will force the release of official records related to the late sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, following a almost unanimous vote in the US House of Representatives and a shift by the president and his Republican allies. The White House gave in after months of trying to block the bipartisan effort involving a scandal that has dogged the president since his comeback to the White House.
Expedited Passage in Congress
Senators proceeded by general agreement, which requires approval from each senator but does not require a individual voting process, expediting the process. Hours earlier, the House voted decisively for the bill on a 427-1 tally.
Citizens have been patient long enough. Those affected have suffered long enough,” Chuck Schumer stated in a address to the chamber on Tuesday, before urging the chamber to pass it unanimously. “Reveal the truth. Allow openness to prevail.”
Presidential Signature
The measure next will be sent to the president for his endorsement. The president signaled on the previous day that he would sign the measure.
Though Trump has for months downplayed the controversy over the official management of the Epstein case as a “political stunt”, he signalled his support for the House bill over the past few days, and said he would approve it if it is presented to him.
Support and Opposition
The Democratic party, along with survivors of Epstein and their advocates who were present in a viewing area, applauded after the bill was passed. The sole “no” vote came from a Louisiana Republican, who expressed concern he feared the measure would disclose identifying details of witnesses, potential suspects and others implicated in the investigation.
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