The upper chamber of Congress on Tuesday passed without delay to a bill that will require the publication of investigative files related to the deceased sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, after a overwhelming vote in the lower house and a change of position by Donald Trump and his Republican allies. The administration gave in after months of trying to delay the joint action involving a controversy that has followed the president since his comeback to the White House.
Swift Passage in Both Chambers
The Senate acted by consensus, which needs acceptance from each senator but does not require a formal roll call vote, expediting the process. Earlier that day, the House voted decisively for the bill on a 427-1 tally.
“The American people have been patient long enough. Those affected have waited patiently,” the Senate Democratic leader declared in a Senate remarks on Tuesday, before asking the chamber to approve it without opposition. “Uncover the facts. Ensure full disclosure.”
Presidential Signature
The measure next will be sent to Trump for his approval. Trump indicated on the previous day that he would endorse the legislation.
Though the president has for months downplayed the outcry over the authorities' approach of the scandal as a “political stunt”, he signalled his support for the measure over the past few days, and stated he would approve it if it reaches his desk.
Reaction
Opposition lawmakers, along with those affected and their representatives who were watching from a public section, applauded after the bill was passed. The only opposition came from Clay Higgins, who stated he feared the measure would disclose specific data of witnesses, persons of interest and others implicated in the investigation.
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