Senate Approves Bill to Make Public Epstein Documents
The Senate on this Tuesday quickly approved to a bill that will require the publication of investigative files associated with the deceased pedophile Jeffrey Epstein, following a almost unanimous vote in the lower house and a reversal by Donald Trump and his Republican allies. The administration gave in after an extended period of trying to forestall the bipartisan effort involving a case that has dogged the president since his comeback to the White House.
Swift Approval in Both Chambers
Senators proceeded by unanimous consent, which requires approval from each senator but does not require a formal roll call vote, accelerating the process. Earlier that day, the House overwhelmingly approved the bill on a 427-1 tally.
The public have been patient long enough. Jeffrey Epstein’s victims have suffered long enough,” Chuck Schumer stated in a address to the chamber on Tuesday, before requesting the chamber to adopt it by consent. “Reveal the truth. Allow openness to prevail.”
Presidential Signature
The bill next goes to the president for his endorsement. Trump signaled on the previous day that he would endorse the legislation.
Although Trump has for months downplayed the outcry over the authorities' approach of the scandal as a “political stunt”, he expressed his backing for the House bill over the past few days, and stated he would give his assent if it is presented to him.
Support and Opposition
Democrats, along with those affected and their representatives who were present in a viewing area, cheered after the bill was passed. The only opposition came from a Louisiana Republican, who said he was concerned the measure would disclose specific data of witnesses, persons of interest and others implicated in the investigation.
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