The Senate on this Tuesday passed without delay to legislation that will require the publication of investigative files associated with the deceased sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, after a almost unanimous vote in the lower house and a reversal by the president and his Republican allies. The administration changed course after months of trying to forestall the bipartisan effort involving a case that has plagued the president since his comeback to the White House.
Unanimous Approval in Congress
The Senate acted by general agreement, which requires approval from each senator but avoids a recorded vote, expediting the process. Just before, the House voted decisively for the bill on a massive majority.
“The American people have been patient long enough. Those affected have waited long enough,” the Senate Democratic leader stated in a Senate remarks on Tuesday, before urging the Senate to approve it without opposition. “Uncover the facts. Ensure full disclosure.”
Presidential Signature
The bill next goes to the president for his signature. The president stated on Monday that he would approve the bill.
Even though the president has for months rejected the outcry over the authorities' approach of the scandal as a “false narrative”, he signalled his support for the House bill over the weekend, and stated he would give his assent if it comes to him.
Reaction
Democrats, along with survivors of Epstein and their advocates who were seated in a House gallery, cheered after the bill was enacted. Lone dissent came from Clay Higgins, who said he was concerned the measure would disclose identifying details of people, persons of interest and others caught up in the investigation.
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