The Senate on Tuesday gave swift approval to a bill that will force the release of official records concerning the late pedophile Jeffrey Epstein, following a almost unanimous vote in the US House of Representatives and a shift by the president and his GOP allies. The White House 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.
Unanimous Approval in Both Chambers
The Senate acted by general agreement, which requires approval from each senator but does not require a formal roll call vote, speeding up the process. Just before, the House passed by a huge margin the bill on a 427-1 tally.
The public have waited long enough. Those affected have waited long enough,” the top Senate Democrat said in a floor speech on Tuesday, before asking the chamber to approve it without opposition. “Let the truth come out. Allow openness to prevail.”
Next Steps
The measure next goes to Donald Trump for his signature. The president signaled on Monday that he would endorse the legislation.
Although Trump has for months downplayed the controversy over the official management of the scandal as a “Democrat hoax”, he voiced approval for the House bill over the weekend, and stated he would give his assent if it comes to him.
Support and Opposition
The Democratic party, along with victims and their representatives who were watching from a viewing area, applauded after the bill was enacted. The only opposition came from Clay Higgins, who expressed concern he feared the measure would disclose identifying details of individuals involved, potential suspects and others involved in the investigation.
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