The Senate on this Tuesday quickly approved to legislation that will mandate the disclosure of investigative files concerning the deceased pedophile Jeffrey Epstein, after a near-unanimous vote in the House of Representatives and a change of position by the president and his Republican allies. Trump's team changed course after months of trying to forestall the bipartisan effort involving a case that has followed the president since his return to the White House.
Swift Approval in Both Chambers
Senators proceeded by consensus, which requires approval from each senator but does not require a individual voting process, expediting the process. Hours earlier, the House voted decisively for the bill on a 427-1 tally.
“The American people have endured sufficient delay. Those affected have waited patiently,” the Senate Democratic leader stated in a floor speech on Tuesday, before requesting the Senate to approve it without opposition. “Let the truth come out. Let transparency reign.”
Next Steps
This legislation next will be sent to Trump for his signature. He signaled on the previous day that he would sign the measure.
Even though Trump has for an extended period rejected the controversy over the authorities' approach of the scandal as a “Democrat hoax”, he voiced approval for the legislation over the weekend, and stated he would approve it if it is presented to him.
Reaction
Democrats, along with survivors of Epstein and their advocates who were present in a viewing area, applauded after the bill was enacted. The sole “no” vote came from Clay Higgins, who expressed concern he was concerned the measure would disclose personal information of individuals involved, potential suspects and others implicated in the investigation.
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