The upper chamber of Congress on this Tuesday quickly approved to a measure that will require the publication of official records concerning the late sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, following a almost unanimous vote in the US House of Representatives and a shift by Donald Trump and his Republican allies. The administration relented after months of trying to block the joint action involving a case that has followed the president since his return to the White House.
Unanimous Passage in Congress
Senators proceeded by unanimous consent, which needs acceptance from each senator but avoids a recorded vote, accelerating the process. Hours earlier, the House overwhelmingly approved the bill on a near-unanimous vote.
“The American people have waited long enough. Jeffrey Epstein’s victims have waited long enough,” the top Senate Democrat stated in a Senate remarks on Tuesday, before urging the chamber to pass it unanimously. “Uncover the facts. Allow openness to prevail.”
Future Action
The bill next will be sent to Donald Trump for his endorsement. The president signaled on the previous day that he would approve the bill.
Although Trump has for an extended period downplayed the controversy over the government’s handling of the scandal as a “Democrat hoax”, he signalled his support for the measure over the weekend, and stated he would approve it if it comes to him.
Response
The Democratic party, along with survivors of Epstein and their advocates who were seated in a viewing area, applauded after the bill was enacted. Lone dissent came from Clay Higgins, who said he was concerned the measure would disclose identifying details of individuals involved, potential suspects and others implicated in the investigation.
Additional Headlines
- Trump faces criticism for labeling a correspondent as ‘piggy’ during a disagreement onboard Air Force One.
- Judge disallows ‘discriminatory’ maps in Texas that awarded Republicans additional districts.
- A significant number of US education agency’s responsibilities transferred to different agencies as part of White House efforts.
- Raids move to Raleigh, with local officials noting ongoing activities.
