The upper chamber of Congress on Tuesday quickly approved to a measure that will force the release of investigative files associated with the deceased sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, following a near-unanimous vote in the House of Representatives and a change of position by Donald Trump and his Republican allies. The White House gave in after months of trying to block the bipartisan effort involving a scandal that has followed the president since his comeback to the White House.
Unanimous Passage in Congress
Senators proceeded by general agreement, which needs acceptance from each senator but does not require a formal roll call vote, accelerating the process. Earlier that day, the House overwhelmingly approved the bill on a near-unanimous vote.
The public have been patient long enough. The survivors have waited long enough,” the Senate Democratic leader stated in a floor speech on Tuesday, before requesting the chamber to pass it unanimously. “Uncover the facts. Ensure full disclosure.”
Presidential Signature
This legislation next will be sent to Trump for his approval. The president indicated on the previous day that he would sign the measure.
Though the president has for months rejected the uproar over the government’s handling of the Epstein case as a “political stunt”, he signalled his support for the measure over the past few days, and said he would approve it if it is presented to him.
Support and Opposition
Democrats, along with those affected and their supporters who were present in a viewing area, applauded after the bill was approved. The sole “no” vote came from Clay Higgins, who said he was concerned the measure would reveal identifying details of individuals involved, those under scrutiny and others implicated in the investigation.
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