The Senate on Tuesday quickly approved to a measure that will force the release of official records associated with the late sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, following a almost unanimous vote in the US House of Representatives and a reversal by Donald Trump and his Republican allies. The administration changed course after an extended period of trying to delay the joint action involving a controversy that has dogged the president since his comeback to the White House.
Swift Approval in Congress
Senators proceeded by unanimous consent, which requires approval from each senator but avoids a formal roll call vote, accelerating the process. Earlier that day, the House voted decisively for the bill on a 427-1 tally.
The public have been patient long enough. Jeffrey Epstein’s victims have suffered long enough,” Chuck Schumer said in a address to the chamber on Tuesday, before requesting the chamber to approve it without opposition. “Uncover the facts. Ensure full disclosure.”
Presidential Signature
The bill next will be sent to Trump for his approval. Trump indicated on Monday that he would approve the bill.
Even though Trump has for months downplayed the outcry over the official management of the investigation as a “Democrat hoax”, he voiced approval for the House bill over the past few days, and stated he would approve it if it reaches his desk.
Response
Democrats, along with survivors of Epstein and their supporters who were seated in a public section, applauded after the bill was passed. Lone dissent came from a GOP representative, who said he worried the measure would make public specific data of witnesses, those under scrutiny and others implicated in the investigation.
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