The upper chamber of Congress on Tuesday quickly approved to legislation that will mandate the disclosure of investigative files related to the late sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, following a almost unanimous vote in the House of Representatives and a reversal by Donald Trump and his GOP allies. Trump's team changed course after months of trying to delay the joint action involving a case that has followed the president since his comeback to the White House.
Unanimous Approval in Both Chambers
Senators proceeded by general agreement, which requires approval from each senator but does not require a recorded vote, expediting the process. Earlier that day, the House voted decisively for the bill on a 427-1 tally.
“The American people have been patient long enough. Those affected have waited long enough,” the top Senate Democrat declared in a address to the chamber on Tuesday, before requesting the Senate to adopt it by consent. “Uncover the facts. Ensure full disclosure.”
Future Action
This legislation next will be sent to Donald Trump for his endorsement. He indicated on the previous day that he would endorse the legislation.
Though Trump has for an extended period rejected the controversy over the authorities' approach 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 is presented to him.
Reaction
Opposition lawmakers, along with survivors of Epstein and their advocates who were present in a public section, cheered after the bill was passed. Lone dissent came from a GOP representative, who expressed concern he feared the measure would disclose personal information of individuals involved, those under scrutiny and others involved in the investigation.
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