The Senate on this Tuesday passed without delay to a measure that will force the release of investigative files concerning the deceased sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, following a overwhelming vote in the House of Representatives and a change of position by Donald Trump and his Republican allies. Trump's team gave in after months of trying to block the bipartisan effort involving a scandal that has plagued the president since his comeback to the White House.
Expedited Passage in Congress
The Senate acted by consensus, which requires approval from each senator but avoids a recorded vote, accelerating the process. Hours earlier, the House passed by a huge margin the bill on a massive majority.
Citizens have endured sufficient delay. The survivors have waited long enough,” Chuck Schumer declared in a Senate remarks on Tuesday, before requesting the chamber to pass it unanimously. “Reveal the truth. Allow openness to prevail.”
Next Steps
The bill next will be sent to Trump for his signature. The president indicated on the previous day that he would sign the measure.
Although the president has for months downplayed the uproar over the government’s handling of the scandal as a “false narrative”, he signalled his support for the House bill over the weekend, and announced he would give his assent if it is presented to him.
Response
The Democratic party, along with those affected and their advocates who were seated in a House gallery, cheered after the bill was passed. The sole “no” vote came from a Louisiana Republican, who said he worried the measure would disclose identifying details of people, potential suspects and others involved in the investigation.
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