The upper chamber of Congress on Tuesday quickly approved to a measure that will require the publication of investigative files associated with the deceased pedophile Jeffrey Epstein, following a overwhelming vote in the lower house and a shift by Donald Trump and his Republican allies. Trump's team changed course after an extended period of trying to delay the joint action involving a controversy that has plagued the president since his comeback to the White House.
Expedited Passage in Congress
Senators proceeded by unanimous consent, which requires approval from each senator but avoids a formal roll call vote, accelerating the process. Earlier that day, the House overwhelmingly approved the bill on a massive majority.
“The American people have waited long enough. Jeffrey Epstein’s victims have waited patiently,” Chuck Schumer said in a address to the chamber on Tuesday, before asking the chamber to approve it without opposition. “Reveal the truth. Ensure full disclosure.”
Next Steps
This legislation next heads to Trump for his signature. Trump signaled on the previous day that he would approve the bill.
Even though Trump has for an extended period dismissed the controversy over the government’s handling of the Epstein case as a “political stunt”, he voiced approval for the measure over the weekend, and stated he would approve it if it comes to him.
Support and Opposition
Opposition lawmakers, along with those affected and their supporters who were present in a public section, cheered after the bill was enacted. The only opposition came from a GOP representative, who stated he feared the measure would make public specific data of witnesses, those under scrutiny and others involved in the investigation.
Additional News Updates
- The president is under fire for labeling a journalist as ‘piggy’ during a clash aboard Air Force One.
- Federal judge blocks ‘discriminatory’ maps in Texas that allocated GOP extra districts.
- A significant number of Department of Education's responsibilities reassigned to different agencies as part of administration efforts.
- Large-scale operations extend to Raleigh, with local officials reporting ongoing activities.
