The Senate on Tuesday gave swift approval to a measure that will mandate the disclosure of investigative files related to the deceased pedophile Jeffrey Epstein, after a near-unanimous vote in the US House of Representatives and a reversal by the president and his GOP allies. The administration relented after an extended period of trying to delay the cross-party initiative involving a scandal that has dogged the president since his comeback to the White House.
Expedited Approval in Both Chambers
Senators proceeded by general agreement, which requires approval from each senator but does not require a individual voting process, speeding up the process. Earlier that day, the House overwhelmingly approved the bill on a massive majority.
“The American people have been patient long enough. Jeffrey Epstein’s victims have waited long enough,” the top Senate Democrat said in a address to the chamber on Tuesday, before requesting the chamber to approve it without opposition. “Reveal the truth. Allow openness to prevail.”
Future Action
This legislation next will be sent to Trump for his signature. He signaled on Monday that he would approve the bill.
Although the president has for months dismissed the controversy over the authorities' approach of the scandal as a “Democrat hoax”, he voiced approval for the measure over the weekend, and announced he would give his assent if it comes to him.
Support and Opposition
Democrats, along with those affected and their advocates who were watching from a public section, cheered after the bill was passed. Lone dissent came from Clay Higgins, who expressed concern he was concerned the measure would make public identifying details of witnesses, those under scrutiny and others involved in the investigation.
Other Headlines
- The president is under fire for calling a journalist as ‘piggy’ during a disagreement aboard Air Force One.
- Judge disallows ‘racially gerrymandered’ maps in Texas that gave Republicans extra districts.
- A significant number of Department of Education's responsibilities moved to other branches as part of White House efforts.
- Mass federal immigration sweeps expand to North Carolina capital, with representatives reporting ongoing activities.
