The Senate on Tuesday quickly approved to legislation that will require the publication of case documents related to the late sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, after a overwhelming vote in the US House of Representatives and a reversal by the president and his GOP allies. Trump's team relented after months of trying to delay the cross-party initiative involving a controversy 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. Earlier that day, the House passed by a huge margin the bill on a 427-1 tally.
Citizens have been patient long enough. The survivors have suffered long enough,” the Senate Democratic leader said in a address to the chamber on Tuesday, before asking the chamber to adopt it by consent. “Let the truth come out. Ensure full disclosure.”
Next Steps
The bill next heads to Donald Trump for his endorsement. The president indicated on Monday that he would approve the bill.
Even though Trump has for months downplayed the uproar over the official management of the investigation as a “false narrative”, he voiced approval for the measure over the weekend, and said he would give his assent if it is presented to him.
Support and Opposition
The Democratic party, along with victims and their supporters who were watching from a public section, applauded after the bill was passed. The only opposition came from a Louisiana Republican, who expressed concern he was concerned the measure would disclose identifying details of witnesses, persons of interest and others caught up in the investigation.
Additional News Updates
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- Mass federal immigration sweeps move to Raleigh, with representatives confirming ongoing activities.
