The Senate on Tuesday passed without delay to a measure that will mandate the disclosure of case documents related to the deceased pedophile Jeffrey Epstein, after a near-unanimous vote in the House of Representatives and a shift by Donald Trump and his GOP allies. Trump's team gave in after an extended period of trying to forestall the bipartisan effort involving a case that has plagued the president since his return to the White House.
Swift Passage in Both Chambers
Senators proceeded by unanimous consent, which requires approval from each senator but avoids a recorded vote, expediting the process. Hours earlier, the House voted decisively for the bill on a near-unanimous vote.
The public have waited long enough. Jeffrey Epstein’s victims have waited long enough,” the Senate Democratic leader declared in a address to the chamber on Tuesday, before urging the Senate to adopt it by consent. “Let the truth come out. Allow openness to prevail.”
Presidential Signature
This legislation next goes to Donald Trump for his signature. Trump indicated on Monday that he would sign the measure.
Though the president has for months rejected the outcry over the authorities' approach of the investigation as a “Democrat hoax”, he signalled his support for the legislation over the weekend, and said he would give his assent if it comes to him.
Support and Opposition
The Democratic party, along with victims and their advocates who were seated in a viewing area, cheered after the bill was enacted. The sole “no” vote came from Clay Higgins, who expressed concern he was concerned the measure would reveal identifying details of people, persons of interest and others implicated in the investigation.
Additional Headlines
- The president faces criticism for referring to a journalist as ‘piggy’ during a clash aboard Air Force One.
- Federal judge rejects ‘discriminatory’ maps in Texas that awarded Republicans extra districts.
- A significant number of Department of Education's responsibilities reassigned to other branches as part of administration efforts.
- Large-scale operations move to Raleigh, with representatives noting ongoing activities.
