The Senate on Tuesday gave swift approval to a measure that will mandate the disclosure of investigative files concerning the deceased pedophile Jeffrey Epstein, following a overwhelming vote in the US House of Representatives and a shift by Donald Trump and his GOP allies. The White House changed course after an extended period of trying to forestall the joint action involving a case that has dogged the president since his comeback to the White House.
Expedited Passage in Both Chambers
The Senate acted by consensus, which needs acceptance from each senator but does not require a recorded vote, expediting the process. Just before, the House overwhelmingly approved the bill on a massive majority.
The public have waited long enough. The survivors have waited long enough,” Chuck Schumer stated in a floor speech on Tuesday, before urging the Senate to pass it unanimously. “Reveal the truth. Allow openness to prevail.”
Next Steps
This legislation next heads to Donald Trump for his approval. The president stated on the previous day that he would sign the measure.
Even though Trump has for months downplayed the uproar over the authorities' approach of the scandal as a “political stunt”, he voiced approval for the legislation over the weekend, and stated he would give his assent if it reaches his desk.
Response
The Democratic party, along with survivors of Epstein and their advocates who were seated in a public section, cheered after the bill was passed. Lone dissent came from Clay Higgins, who said he worried the measure would reveal personal information of people, those under scrutiny and others implicated in the investigation.
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