The Senate on Tuesday passed without delay to legislation that will force the release of case documents related to the deceased pedophile Jeffrey Epstein, after a almost unanimous vote in the House of Representatives and a change of position by Donald Trump and his GOP allies. The White House gave in after an extended period of trying to block the cross-party initiative involving a controversy that has followed the president since his comeback to the White House.
Unanimous Passage in Both Chambers
Senators proceeded by general agreement, which requires approval from each senator but avoids a formal roll call vote, speeding up the process. Earlier that day, the House voted decisively for the bill on a massive majority.
The public have been patient long enough. Those affected have suffered long enough,” the top Senate Democrat stated in a address to the chamber on Tuesday, before urging the Senate to pass it unanimously. “Reveal the truth. Ensure full disclosure.”
Next Steps
The bill next heads to Donald Trump for his approval. He signaled on the previous day that he would sign the measure.
Though the president has for months rejected the outcry over the official management of the investigation as a “political stunt”, he signalled his support for the House bill over the past few days, and stated he would give his assent if it comes to him.
Reaction
Democrats, along with survivors of Epstein and their advocates who were present in a viewing area, cheered after the bill was enacted. Lone dissent came from Clay Higgins, who stated he feared the measure would disclose identifying details of witnesses, potential suspects and others involved in the investigation.
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