The Senate on Tuesday quickly approved to legislation that will require the publication of investigative files concerning the late sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, after a overwhelming vote in the lower house and a change of position by the president and his Republican allies. The administration relented after an extended period of trying to block the bipartisan effort involving a scandal that has followed the president since his return to the White House.
Unanimous Approval in Congress
The Senate acted by unanimous consent, which needs acceptance from each senator but avoids a formal roll call vote, expediting the process. Earlier that day, the House passed by a huge margin the bill on a massive majority.
The public have waited long enough. Those affected have waited long enough,” Chuck Schumer declared in a address to the chamber on Tuesday, before requesting the Senate to pass it unanimously. “Let the truth come out. Allow openness to prevail.”
Presidential Signature
The bill next heads to Trump for his approval. The president signaled on the previous day that he would approve the bill.
Although the president has for months rejected the uproar over the official management of the scandal as a “Democrat hoax”, he signalled his support for the legislation over the past few days, and said he would approve it if it comes to him.
Reaction
The Democratic party, along with survivors of Epstein and their representatives who were seated in a House gallery, cheered after the bill was passed. The only opposition came from a Louisiana Republican, who expressed concern he feared the measure would make public personal information of people, persons of interest and others implicated in the investigation.
Other Stories
- The president faces criticism for labeling a female Bloomberg reporter as ‘piggy’ during a disagreement aboard Air Force One.
- Judge disallows ‘discriminatory’ maps in the state of Texas that awarded Republicans extra districts.
- Many of Department of Education's responsibilities moved to other branches as part of White House efforts.
- Large-scale operations extend to North Carolina capital, with local officials confirming ongoing activities.
