The Senate on this Tuesday gave swift approval to a measure that will require the publication of investigative files associated with the late sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, following a overwhelming vote in the US House of Representatives and a shift by Donald Trump and his Republican allies. The administration relented after months of trying to delay the cross-party initiative involving a case that has followed the president since his comeback to the White House.
Expedited Passage in Congress
The Senate acted by unanimous consent, which requires approval from each senator but does not require a formal roll call vote, expediting the process. Earlier that day, the House overwhelmingly approved the bill on a massive majority.
Citizens have waited long enough. Jeffrey Epstein’s victims have waited long enough,” Chuck Schumer said in a floor speech on Tuesday, before urging the Senate to pass it unanimously. “Uncover the facts. Ensure full disclosure.”
Future Action
The bill next heads to Trump for his signature. The president signaled on Monday that he would endorse the legislation.
Though the president has for an extended period rejected the controversy over the authorities' approach of the scandal as a “false narrative”, he signalled his support for the measure over the past few days, and announced he would approve it if it comes to him.
Support and Opposition
Opposition lawmakers, along with those affected and their representatives who were seated in a viewing area, applauded after the bill was approved. The sole “no” vote came from a GOP representative, who expressed concern he was concerned the measure would disclose specific data of individuals involved, persons of interest and others involved in the investigation.
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