The Senate on Tuesday gave swift approval to a measure that will require the publication of investigative files associated with the deceased pedophile Jeffrey Epstein, following a overwhelming vote in the House of Representatives and a reversal by Donald Trump and his Republican allies. The White House changed course after an extended period of trying to block the bipartisan effort involving a scandal that has dogged the president since his comeback to the White House.
Unanimous Passage in Both Chambers
The Senate acted by unanimous consent, which requires approval from each senator but avoids a recorded vote, expediting the process. Just before, the House voted decisively for the bill on a massive majority.
Citizens have been patient long enough. The survivors have suffered long enough,” Chuck Schumer said in a address to the chamber on Tuesday, before requesting the chamber to adopt it by consent. “Let the truth come out. Ensure full disclosure.”
Future Action
The measure next goes to Donald Trump for his approval. He indicated on Monday that he would sign the measure.
Even though Trump has for months dismissed the outcry over the authorities' approach of the Epstein case as a “political stunt”, he voiced approval for the legislation over the past few days, and said he would sign the measure if it is presented to him.
Reaction
Opposition lawmakers, along with those affected and their advocates who were seated in a public section, cheered after the bill was enacted. Lone dissent came from Clay Higgins, who stated he was concerned the measure would reveal specific data of people, persons of interest and others involved in the investigation.
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