The Senate on this Tuesday gave swift approval to legislation that will force the release of investigative files concerning the late sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, after a near-unanimous vote in the House of Representatives and a shift by Donald Trump and his Republican allies. The White House gave in after months of trying to block the bipartisan effort involving a controversy that has followed the president since his return to the White House.
Unanimous Approval in Both Chambers
Senators proceeded by general agreement, which requires approval from each senator but avoids a recorded vote, expediting the process. Just before, the House overwhelmingly approved the bill on a near-unanimous vote.
Citizens have been patient long enough. Those affected have waited long enough,” the Senate Democratic leader said in a floor speech on Tuesday, before urging the Senate to approve it without opposition. “Uncover the facts. Let transparency reign.”
Next Steps
The bill next goes to Trump for his signature. He indicated on the previous day that he would sign the measure.
Even though Trump has for months downplayed the outcry over the government’s handling of the Epstein case as a “Democrat hoax”, he signalled his support for the House bill over the past few days, and stated he would approve it if it is presented to him.
Response
Democrats, along with those affected and their representatives who were seated in a public section, applauded after the bill was enacted. Lone dissent came from a Louisiana Republican, who expressed concern he was concerned the measure would make public identifying details of witnesses, those under scrutiny and others implicated in the investigation.
Additional Stories
- The president faces criticism for labeling a journalist as ‘piggy’ during a disagreement aboard Air Force One.
- Judge disallows ‘discriminatory’ maps in the state of Texas that gave Republicans extra districts.
- A significant number of US education agency’s authorities reassigned to other branches as part of White House efforts.
- Mass federal immigration sweeps expand to North Carolina capital, with authorities reporting ongoing activities.
