The Senate on Tuesday gave swift approval to legislation that will require the publication of investigative files related to the late pedophile Jeffrey Epstein, following a overwhelming vote in the House of Representatives and a reversal by Donald Trump and his Republican allies. The White House relented after months of trying to forestall the bipartisan effort involving a controversy that has plagued the president since his comeback to the White House.
Unanimous Passage in Both Chambers
The Senate acted by consensus, which requires approval from each senator but avoids a formal roll call vote, speeding up the process. Earlier that day, the House overwhelmingly approved the bill on a 427-1 tally.
The public have endured sufficient delay. Those affected have waited patiently,” the Senate Democratic leader declared in a Senate remarks on Tuesday, before asking the chamber to adopt it by consent. “Reveal the truth. Ensure full disclosure.”
Next Steps
The measure next heads to Donald Trump for his approval. Trump indicated on Monday that he would endorse the legislation.
Although Trump has for months downplayed the uproar over the authorities' approach of the scandal as a “false narrative”, he signalled his support for the legislation over the past few days, and said he would sign the measure if it comes to him.
Response
Democrats, along with victims and their representatives who were present in a viewing area, cheered after the bill was enacted. The sole “no” vote came from a GOP representative, who stated he feared the measure would reveal specific data of people, those under scrutiny and others caught up in the investigation.
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