The upper chamber of Congress on Tuesday gave swift approval to a bill that will force the release of case documents concerning the late sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, following a overwhelming vote in the lower house and a reversal by the president and his Republican allies. The administration relented after an extended period of trying to forestall the cross-party initiative involving a case that has plagued the president since his comeback to the White House.
Unanimous Passage in Both Chambers
The Senate acted by general agreement, which requires approval from each senator but does not require a recorded vote, expediting the process. Hours earlier, the House voted decisively for the bill on a 427-1 tally.
Citizens have been patient long enough. Those affected have waited long enough,” the top Senate Democrat declared in a Senate remarks on Tuesday, before asking the chamber to pass it unanimously. “Let the truth come out. Let transparency reign.”
Presidential Signature
The measure next heads to Donald Trump for his approval. The president signaled on the previous day that he would endorse the legislation.
Although Trump has for an extended period downplayed the controversy over the authorities' approach of the scandal as a “false narrative”, he signalled his support for the legislation over the past few days, and announced he would give his assent if it reaches his desk.
Reaction
Democrats, along with those affected and their representatives who were present in a House gallery, cheered after the bill was enacted. The sole “no” vote came from a Louisiana Republican, who said he feared the measure would reveal specific data of witnesses, potential suspects and others implicated in the investigation.
Additional News Updates
- Trump faces criticism for referring to a journalist as ‘piggy’ during a clash onboard Air Force One.
- Federal judge blocks ‘racially gerrymandered’ maps in the state of Texas that gave GOP extra districts.
- A significant number of US education agency’s powers moved to other federal departments as part of administration efforts.
- Mass federal immigration sweeps extend to the state's capital, with local officials confirming ongoing activities.