The upper chamber of Congress on this Tuesday quickly approved to legislation that will require the publication of case documents associated with the late pedophile Jeffrey Epstein, after a near-unanimous vote in the House of Representatives and a shift by the president and his GOP allies. Trump's team gave in after an extended period of trying to delay the bipartisan effort involving a scandal that has plagued the president since his return to the White House.
Expedited Passage in Congress
The Senate acted by consensus, 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 427-1 tally.
Citizens have endured sufficient delay. Jeffrey Epstein’s victims have waited long enough,” the Senate Democratic leader declared in a floor speech on Tuesday, before asking the chamber to pass it unanimously. “Uncover the facts. Ensure full disclosure.”
Next Steps
This legislation next goes to Trump for his approval. The president 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 investigation as a “false narrative”, he expressed his backing for the House bill over the weekend, and stated he would approve it if it is presented to him.
Reaction
The Democratic party, along with victims and their advocates who were seated in a viewing area, broke into applause after the bill was enacted. The sole “no” vote came from a Louisiana Republican, who expressed concern he worried the measure would disclose personal information of individuals involved, potential suspects and others caught up in the investigation.
Additional News Updates
- The president faces criticism for labeling a female Bloomberg reporter as ‘piggy’ during a clash onboard Air Force One.
- Federal judge rejects ‘racially gerrymandered’ maps in the state of Texas that gave GOP additional districts.
- Many of Department of Education's powers reassigned to other branches as part of White House efforts.
- Raids expand to the state's capital, with representatives reporting ongoing activities.
