The Senate on this Tuesday quickly approved to a measure that will force the release of investigative files related to the late pedophile Jeffrey Epstein, following a overwhelming vote in the US House of Representatives and a change of position by the president and his Republican allies. The administration relented after months of trying to block the joint action involving a controversy that has plagued the president since his comeback to the White House.
Unanimous Passage in Congress
Senators proceeded by unanimous consent, which requires approval from each senator but does not require a recorded vote, accelerating the process. Earlier that day, the House overwhelmingly approved the bill on a massive majority.
The public have been patient long enough. The survivors have waited patiently,” the Senate Democratic leader said in a Senate remarks on Tuesday, before urging the Senate to approve it without opposition. “Reveal the truth. Ensure full disclosure.”
Next Steps
The bill next heads to Donald Trump for his signature. Trump indicated on Monday that he would endorse the legislation.
Though Trump has for an extended period rejected the controversy over the authorities' approach of the scandal as a “Democrat hoax”, he signalled his support for the measure over the past few days, and said he would approve it if it comes to him.
Support and Opposition
Democrats, along with those affected and their representatives who were watching from a House gallery, applauded after the bill was approved. The only opposition came from a Louisiana Republican, who said he was concerned the measure would make public specific data of witnesses, those under scrutiny and others involved in the investigation.
Other News Updates
- Trump receives backlash for referring to a journalist as ‘piggy’ during a confrontation aboard Air Force One.
- Judge disallows ‘discriminatory’ maps in the state of Texas that gave Republicans extra districts.
- Many of Department of Education's responsibilities transferred to different agencies as part of administration efforts.
- Large-scale operations extend to Raleigh, with local officials noting ongoing activities.
