The upper chamber of Congress on Tuesday quickly approved to legislation that will require the publication of investigative files concerning the late sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, following a overwhelming vote in the lower house and a change of position by Donald Trump and his GOP allies. Trump's team relented after an extended period of trying to forestall the joint action involving a scandal that has dogged the president since his return to the White House.
Unanimous Approval in Both Chambers
Senators proceeded by consensus, which needs acceptance from each senator but avoids a formal roll call vote, expediting the process. Earlier that day, the House overwhelmingly approved the bill on a massive majority.
The public have endured sufficient delay. Those affected have waited long enough,” the top Senate Democrat stated in a Senate remarks on Tuesday, before requesting the Senate to pass it unanimously. “Reveal the truth. Let transparency reign.”
Future Action
The bill next heads to Trump for his approval. Trump stated on Monday that he would endorse the legislation.
Although Trump has for months dismissed the outcry over the authorities' approach of the Epstein case as a “Democrat hoax”, he expressed his backing for the legislation over the weekend, and said he would sign the measure if it comes to him.
Response
Democrats, along with victims and their advocates who were present in a viewing area, cheered after the bill was approved. The sole “no” vote came from a Louisiana Republican, who expressed concern he was concerned the measure would reveal specific data of people, those under scrutiny and others involved in the investigation.
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