The upper chamber of Congress on this Tuesday gave swift approval to legislation that will force the release of official records concerning the deceased sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, after a near-unanimous vote in the US House of Representatives and a reversal by Donald Trump and his GOP allies. Trump's team relented after an extended period of trying to forestall the joint action involving a scandal that has followed the president since his return to the White House.
Expedited Approval in Congress
Senators proceeded by consensus, which requires approval from each senator but avoids a recorded vote, accelerating the process. Hours earlier, the House overwhelmingly approved the bill on a massive majority.
The public have waited long enough. Those affected have waited long enough,” the Senate Democratic leader declared in a floor speech on Tuesday, before urging the chamber to adopt it by consent. “Reveal the truth. Ensure full disclosure.”
Presidential Signature
The measure next heads to Trump for his signature. The president stated on Monday that he would approve the bill.
Although the president has for months rejected the uproar over the official management of the investigation as a “Democrat hoax”, he signalled his support for the House bill over the weekend, and stated he would sign the measure if it comes to him.
Response
The Democratic party, along with survivors of Epstein and their supporters who were seated in a public section, broke into applause after the bill was enacted. The sole “no” vote came from a GOP representative, who expressed concern he worried the measure would disclose identifying details of individuals involved, those under scrutiny and others involved in the investigation.
Other News Updates
- The president receives backlash for labeling a correspondent as ‘piggy’ during a clash onboard Air Force One.
- Judge rejects ‘discriminatory’ maps in the state of Texas that gave Republicans extra districts.
- Many of Department of Education's responsibilities reassigned to other branches as part of White House efforts.
- Mass federal immigration sweeps expand to North Carolina capital, with representatives noting ongoing activities.
