The Senate on Tuesday passed without delay to a bill that will require the publication of investigative files concerning the late sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, following a near-unanimous vote in the lower house and a shift by the president and his Republican allies. The White House relented after an extended period of trying to delay the bipartisan effort involving a case that has plagued the president since his comeback to the White House.
Expedited Approval in Congress
The Senate acted by general agreement, which requires approval from each senator but does not require a formal roll call vote, speeding up the process. Earlier that day, the House voted decisively for the bill on a massive majority.
The public have been patient long enough. Those affected have suffered long enough,” the top Senate Democrat stated in a address to the chamber on Tuesday, before requesting the Senate to pass it unanimously. “Reveal the truth. Let transparency reign.”
Future Action
This legislation next will be sent to Trump for his approval. The president stated on Monday that he would endorse the legislation.
Although Trump has for months dismissed the uproar over the authorities' approach of the scandal as a “false narrative”, he expressed his backing for the House bill over the past few days, and stated he would approve it if it comes to him.
Reaction
The Democratic party, along with survivors of Epstein and their advocates who were present in a House gallery, cheered after the bill was approved. Lone dissent came from Clay Higgins, who said he was concerned the measure would reveal specific data of individuals involved, potential suspects and others involved in the investigation.
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