The upper chamber of Congress on Tuesday passed without delay to a measure that will require the publication of official records associated with the deceased sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, following a near-unanimous vote in the US House of Representatives and a reversal by Donald Trump and his Republican allies. The administration gave in after an extended period of trying to block the joint action involving a controversy that has followed the president since his comeback to the White House.
Swift Passage in Both Chambers
Senators proceeded by consensus, which needs acceptance from each senator but does not require a recorded vote, speeding up the process. Just before, the House passed by a huge margin the bill on a 427-1 tally.
Citizens have endured sufficient delay. The survivors have suffered long enough,” the Senate Democratic leader stated in a address to the chamber on Tuesday, before requesting the Senate to approve it without opposition. “Uncover the facts. Ensure full disclosure.”
Presidential Signature
The measure next goes to Trump for his endorsement. Trump stated on Monday that he would approve the bill.
Although Trump has for months dismissed the controversy over the government’s handling of the Epstein case as a “Democrat hoax”, he voiced approval for the House bill over the weekend, and stated he would approve it if it reaches his desk.
Support and Opposition
The Democratic party, along with survivors of Epstein and their advocates who were present in a viewing area, cheered after the bill was approved. Lone dissent came from Clay Higgins, who said he was concerned the measure would make public identifying details of individuals involved, persons of interest and others caught up in the investigation.
Other Headlines
- Trump faces criticism for calling a journalist as ‘piggy’ during a disagreement onboard Air Force One.
- Judge blocks ‘discriminatory’ maps in the state of Texas that awarded GOP additional districts.
- A significant number of US education agency’s powers reassigned to other federal departments as part of White House efforts.
- Mass federal immigration sweeps extend to Raleigh, with local officials confirming ongoing activities.
