The Senate on this Tuesday gave swift approval to a bill that will mandate the disclosure of official records associated with the late sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, after a overwhelming vote in the US House of Representatives and a change of position by Donald Trump and his GOP allies. Trump's team relented after an extended period of trying to forestall the joint action involving a controversy that has dogged the president since his comeback to the White House.
Swift Passage in Both Chambers
Senators proceeded by unanimous consent, which needs acceptance from each senator but does not require a recorded vote, accelerating the process. Hours earlier, the House overwhelmingly approved the bill on a 427-1 tally.
“The American people have endured sufficient delay. Jeffrey Epstein’s victims have waited patiently,” the top Senate Democrat declared in a floor speech on Tuesday, before asking the Senate to approve it without opposition. “Uncover the facts. Ensure full disclosure.”
Next Steps
This legislation next will be sent to Donald Trump for his endorsement. Trump indicated on the previous day that he would approve the bill.
Though the president has for months downplayed the outcry over the government’s handling of the investigation as a “political stunt”, he signalled his support for the measure over the weekend, and said he would approve it if it comes to him.
Support and Opposition
The Democratic party, along with victims and their advocates who were present in a public section, cheered after the bill was enacted. The only opposition came from a GOP representative, who stated he was concerned the measure would make public personal information of individuals involved, persons of interest and others caught up in the investigation.
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