The Senate on Tuesday passed without delay to legislation that will require the publication of investigative files concerning the late pedophile Jeffrey Epstein, following a overwhelming vote in the House of Representatives and a shift by Donald Trump and his Republican allies. The White House changed course after months of trying to forestall the cross-party initiative involving a case that has plagued the president since his return to the White House.
Unanimous Approval in Both Chambers
The Senate acted by consensus, which requires approval from each senator but does not require a recorded vote, accelerating the process. Just before, the House passed by a huge margin the bill on a 427-1 tally.
Citizens have been patient long enough. Those affected have waited long enough,” the Senate Democratic leader said in a address to the chamber on Tuesday, before asking the chamber to adopt it by consent. “Reveal the truth. Allow openness to prevail.”
Next Steps
This legislation next goes to the president for his approval. The president stated on Monday that he would endorse the legislation.
Even though the president has for an extended period dismissed the outcry over the official management of the investigation as a “political stunt”, he voiced approval for the House bill over the past few days, and said he would approve it if it reaches his desk.
Reaction
Opposition lawmakers, along with survivors of Epstein and their advocates who were watching from a public section, applauded after the bill was passed. Lone dissent came from Clay Higgins, who expressed concern he was concerned the measure would make public personal information of people, potential suspects and others implicated in the investigation.
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