The upper chamber of Congress on Tuesday passed without delay to a bill that will require the publication of case documents related to the late sex offender 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 changed course after months of trying to forestall the cross-party initiative involving a case that has followed the president since his comeback to the White House.
Swift Approval in Both Chambers
Senators proceeded by consensus, which needs acceptance from each senator but does not require a individual voting process, accelerating the process. Hours earlier, the House passed by a huge margin the bill on a 427-1 tally.
Citizens have waited long enough. Those affected have waited long enough,” the Senate Democratic leader stated in a address to the chamber on Tuesday, before asking the Senate to pass it unanimously. “Uncover the facts. Ensure full disclosure.”
Next Steps
This legislation next goes to Trump for his endorsement. Trump signaled on Monday that he would approve the bill.
Though Trump has for months dismissed the uproar over the government’s handling of the investigation as a “Democrat hoax”, he signalled his support for the legislation over the weekend, and stated he would sign the measure if it comes to him.
Response
Democrats, along with victims and their supporters who were watching from a House gallery, cheered after the bill was approved. The sole “no” vote came from a Louisiana Republican, who expressed concern he feared the measure would disclose identifying details of people, those under scrutiny and others implicated in the investigation.
Additional Headlines
- Trump is under fire for calling a correspondent as ‘piggy’ during a confrontation aboard Air Force One.
- Federal judge disallows ‘racially gerrymandered’ maps in Texas that awarded Republicans additional districts.
- Many of US education agency’s powers transferred to other branches as part of administration efforts.
- Mass federal immigration sweeps extend to Raleigh, with representatives noting ongoing activities.
