The upper chamber of Congress on Tuesday quickly approved to legislation that will mandate the disclosure of case documents concerning the late sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, following a overwhelming vote in the House of Representatives and a change of position by Donald Trump and his Republican allies. The administration changed course after months of trying to delay the bipartisan effort involving a controversy that has dogged the president since his comeback to the White House.
Expedited Approval in Both Chambers
Senators proceeded by general agreement, which needs acceptance from each senator but avoids a individual voting process, speeding up the process. Earlier that day, the House voted decisively for the bill on a massive majority.
Citizens have been patient long enough. Jeffrey Epstein’s victims have waited patiently,” the Senate Democratic leader said in a floor speech on Tuesday, before asking the Senate to approve it without opposition. “Uncover the facts. Ensure full disclosure.”
Presidential Signature
The measure next will be sent to Trump for his approval. Trump indicated on the previous day that he would approve the bill.
Although Trump has for months downplayed the uproar over the official management of the scandal as a “false narrative”, he voiced approval for the measure over the weekend, and announced he would sign the measure if it comes to him.
Response
The Democratic party, along with victims and their representatives who were present in a House gallery, applauded after the bill was passed. The sole “no” vote came from a Louisiana Republican, who expressed concern he worried the measure would reveal specific data of people, persons of interest and others involved in the investigation.
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