The Senate on Tuesday gave swift approval to a bill that will mandate the disclosure of case documents concerning the deceased sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, following a almost unanimous vote in the House of Representatives and a reversal by the president and his Republican allies. The administration gave in after an extended period of trying to forestall the cross-party initiative involving a controversy that has dogged the president since his return to the White House.
Unanimous Passage in Both Chambers
The Senate acted by unanimous consent, which requires approval from each senator but does not require a formal roll call vote, expediting the process. Earlier that day, the House voted decisively for the bill on a massive majority.
The public have waited long enough. Those affected have waited patiently,” the Senate Democratic leader declared in a floor speech on Tuesday, before urging the Senate to adopt it by consent. “Reveal the truth. Let transparency reign.”
Presidential Signature
This legislation next heads to Trump for his approval. The president signaled on Monday that he would sign the measure.
Even though the president has for months rejected the outcry over the authorities' approach of the Epstein case as a “Democrat hoax”, he voiced approval for the measure over the past few days, and stated he would approve it if it is presented to him.
Reaction
The Democratic party, along with survivors of Epstein and their supporters who were watching from a viewing area, applauded after the bill was passed. The only opposition came from Clay Higgins, who said he was concerned the measure would make public specific data of individuals involved, potential suspects and others caught up in the investigation.
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