The Senate on Tuesday passed without delay to legislation that will require the publication of investigative files associated with the late sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, after a overwhelming vote in the lower house and a change of position by Donald Trump and his Republican allies. The White House changed course after an extended period of trying to forestall the bipartisan effort involving a controversy that has followed the president since his return to the White House.
Expedited Approval in Congress
The Senate acted by consensus, which requires approval from each senator but does not require a recorded vote, expediting the process. Earlier that day, the House overwhelmingly approved the bill on a massive majority.
Citizens have endured sufficient delay. The survivors have suffered long enough,” Chuck Schumer declared in a Senate remarks on Tuesday, before urging the Senate to adopt it by consent. “Reveal the truth. Ensure full disclosure.”
Next Steps
The measure next will be sent to Trump for his signature. The president signaled on the previous day that he would endorse the legislation.
Even though Trump has for months downplayed the uproar over the authorities' approach of the Epstein case as a “political stunt”, he signalled his support for the legislation over the weekend, and said he would sign the measure if it comes to him.
Response
Opposition lawmakers, along with victims and their representatives who were present in a public section, broke into applause after the bill was passed. Lone dissent came from a Louisiana Republican, who stated he was concerned the measure would disclose specific data of individuals involved, potential suspects and others implicated in the investigation.
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