The Senate on Tuesday passed without delay to legislation that will force the release of investigative files concerning the deceased pedophile Jeffrey Epstein, following a almost unanimous vote in the US House of Representatives and a shift by the president and his GOP allies. The administration gave in after an extended period of trying to block the bipartisan effort involving a controversy that has dogged the president since his comeback to the White House.
Unanimous Passage in Congress
Senators proceeded by unanimous consent, which needs acceptance from each senator but does not require a individual voting process, accelerating the process. Earlier that day, the House passed by a huge margin the bill on a 427-1 tally.
“The American people have endured sufficient delay. Those affected have suffered long enough,” the top Senate Democrat stated in a floor speech on Tuesday, before urging the Senate to adopt it by consent. “Reveal the truth. Ensure full disclosure.”
Next Steps
The bill next will be sent to Donald Trump for his endorsement. He signaled on Monday that he would endorse the legislation.
Although the president has for months dismissed the controversy over the authorities' approach of the investigation as a “false narrative”, he voiced approval for the legislation over the weekend, and said he would approve it if it reaches his desk.
Reaction
The Democratic party, along with victims and their advocates who were watching from a House gallery, cheered after the bill was approved. The only opposition came from a Louisiana Republican, who stated he was concerned the measure would reveal specific data of individuals involved, those under scrutiny and others involved in the investigation.
Other Stories
- Trump is under fire for labeling a journalist as ‘piggy’ during a confrontation onboard Air Force One.
- Federal judge disallows ‘discriminatory’ maps in Texas that allocated GOP more districts.
- Many of Department of Education's authorities reassigned to different agencies as part of administration efforts.
- Mass federal immigration sweeps expand to North Carolina capital, with authorities reporting ongoing activities.
