The Senate on this Tuesday gave swift approval to a measure that will require the publication of official records concerning the late sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, after a almost unanimous vote in the House of Representatives and a shift by the president and his Republican allies. The administration relented after an extended period of trying to block the bipartisan effort involving a controversy that has plagued the president since his return to the White House.
Swift Approval in Both Chambers
The Senate acted by general agreement, which requires approval from each senator but does not require a formal roll call vote, expediting the process. Earlier that day, the House passed by a huge margin the bill on a massive majority.
Citizens have waited long enough. Those affected have waited long enough,” the Senate Democratic leader declared in a Senate remarks on Tuesday, before urging the chamber to approve it without opposition. “Reveal the truth. Allow openness to prevail.”
Next Steps
The measure next will be sent to the president for his signature. He indicated on the previous day that he would approve the bill.
Although Trump has for months downplayed the controversy over the authorities' approach of the Epstein case as a “false narrative”, he signalled his support for the legislation over the weekend, and stated he would give his assent if it is presented to him.
Reaction
The Democratic party, along with victims and their representatives who were watching from a public section, cheered after the bill was passed. The sole “no” vote came from a Louisiana Republican, who stated he feared the measure would disclose specific data of people, persons of interest and others involved in the investigation.
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