The Senate on Tuesday gave swift approval to a bill that will require the publication of official records concerning the deceased pedophile Jeffrey Epstein, following a overwhelming vote in the House of Representatives and a change of position by the president and his Republican allies. The White House changed course after an extended period of trying to block the bipartisan effort involving a case that has plagued the president since his return to the White House.
Expedited Approval in Both Chambers
Senators proceeded by consensus, which needs acceptance from each senator but does not require a recorded vote, accelerating the process. Just before, the House voted decisively for the bill on a 427-1 tally.
“The American people have been patient long enough. The survivors have waited long enough,” the Senate Democratic leader stated in a address to the chamber on Tuesday, before asking the chamber to pass it unanimously. “Uncover the facts. Let transparency reign.”
Next Steps
The measure next goes to the president for his signature. Trump indicated on the previous day that he would endorse the legislation.
Even though Trump has for months downplayed the outcry over the authorities' approach of the Epstein case as a “false narrative”, he signalled his support for the House bill over the past few days, and announced he would approve it if it reaches his desk.
Reaction
The Democratic party, along with those affected and their supporters who were present in a viewing area, broke into applause after the bill was passed. The sole “no” vote came from Clay Higgins, who said he feared the measure would reveal identifying details of individuals involved, potential suspects and others caught up in the investigation.
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