The Senate on Tuesday quickly approved to a measure that will require the publication of investigative files concerning the deceased sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, following a near-unanimous vote in the lower house and a shift by Donald Trump and his Republican allies. Trump's team relented after months of trying to block the bipartisan effort involving a controversy that has dogged the president since his return to the White House.
Unanimous Approval in Congress
The Senate acted by unanimous consent, which requires approval from each senator but avoids a individual voting process, expediting the process. Earlier that day, the House passed by a huge margin the bill on a near-unanimous vote.
Citizens have waited long enough. The survivors have waited long enough,” the Senate Democratic leader stated in a floor speech on Tuesday, before asking the chamber to adopt it by consent. “Uncover the facts. Let transparency reign.”
Presidential Signature
The measure next goes to Donald Trump for his approval. He signaled on the previous day that he would endorse the legislation.
Although Trump has for months downplayed the uproar over the government’s handling of the scandal as a “false narrative”, he signalled his support for the House bill over the past few days, and said he would approve it if it comes to him.
Support and Opposition
Opposition lawmakers, along with survivors of Epstein and their supporters who were watching from a viewing area, applauded after the bill was enacted. The only opposition came from Clay Higgins, who stated he was concerned the measure would reveal identifying details of individuals involved, potential suspects and others involved in the investigation.
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