The Senate on Tuesday gave swift approval to a bill that will force the release of case documents concerning the late sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, after a overwhelming vote in the lower house and a reversal by the president and his GOP allies. The administration relented after an extended period of trying to block the joint action involving a scandal that has plagued the president since his comeback to the White House.
Swift Approval in Both Chambers
The Senate acted by general agreement, which needs acceptance from each senator but avoids a recorded vote, expediting the process. Just before, the House passed by a huge margin the bill on a massive majority.
“The American people have endured sufficient delay. The survivors have waited patiently,” the Senate Democratic leader said in a floor speech on Tuesday, before urging the chamber to pass it unanimously. “Let the truth come out. Ensure full disclosure.”
Presidential Signature
This legislation next heads to the president for his signature. Trump signaled on Monday that he would sign the measure.
Even though Trump has for an extended period rejected the controversy over the official management of the Epstein case as a “political stunt”, he voiced approval for the measure over the past few days, and said he would sign the measure if it reaches his desk.
Reaction
Democrats, along with victims and their advocates who were seated in a House gallery, applauded after the bill was passed. Lone dissent came from Clay Higgins, who said he worried the measure would reveal specific data of people, potential suspects and others caught up in the investigation.
Additional News Updates
- The president receives backlash for calling a correspondent as ‘piggy’ during a confrontation aboard Air Force One.
- Judge rejects ‘racially gerrymandered’ maps in Texas that gave Republicans more districts.
- Many of US education agency’s responsibilities moved to other branches as part of White House efforts.
- Large-scale operations move to North Carolina capital, with authorities noting ongoing activities.
