The Senate on Tuesday passed without delay to a measure that will force the release of investigative files associated with the late pedophile Jeffrey Epstein, following a overwhelming vote in the House of Representatives and a change of position by Donald Trump and his GOP allies. Trump's team relented after an extended period of trying to delay the bipartisan effort involving a scandal that has dogged the president since his comeback to the White House.
Swift Approval in Congress
The Senate acted by unanimous consent, which needs acceptance from each senator but avoids a formal roll call vote, speeding up the process. Hours earlier, the House voted decisively for the bill on a 427-1 tally.
The public have endured sufficient delay. Those affected have waited patiently,” the Senate Democratic leader said in a floor speech on Tuesday, before requesting the Senate to adopt it by consent. “Uncover the facts. Allow openness to prevail.”
Presidential Signature
The measure next heads to Donald Trump for his signature. The president indicated on the previous day that he would endorse the legislation.
Even though Trump has for months rejected the uproar over the government’s handling of the Epstein case as a “false narrative”, he voiced approval for the House bill over the weekend, and said he would give his assent if it comes to him.
Support and Opposition
Opposition lawmakers, along with survivors of Epstein and their advocates who were watching from a viewing area, cheered after the bill was passed. The only opposition came from a GOP representative, who expressed concern he feared the measure would make public specific data of individuals involved, potential suspects and others implicated in the investigation.
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