The Senate on Tuesday passed without delay to legislation that will require the publication of official records related to the late sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, following a almost unanimous vote in the lower house and a shift by the president and his Republican allies. The administration gave in after an extended period of trying to block the joint action involving a case that has plagued the president since his return to the White House.
Expedited Approval in Congress
The Senate acted by consensus, which requires approval from each senator but does not require a recorded vote, accelerating the process. Just before, the House voted decisively for the bill on a massive majority.
The public have waited long enough. Those affected have waited long enough,” the Senate Democratic leader said in a floor speech on Tuesday, before requesting the Senate to adopt it by consent. “Reveal the truth. Let transparency reign.”
Future Action
This legislation next goes to Trump for his approval. He stated on the previous day that he would endorse the legislation.
Though the president has for months downplayed the controversy over the official management of the investigation as a “Democrat hoax”, he expressed his backing for the House bill over the past few days, and announced he would approve it if it reaches his desk.
Reaction
Democrats, along with those affected and their supporters who were watching from a House gallery, applauded after the bill was approved. The sole “no” vote came from Clay Higgins, who said he feared the measure would disclose identifying details of individuals involved, potential suspects and others caught up in the investigation.
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