The Senate on this Tuesday passed without delay to a measure that will force the release of investigative files concerning the late pedophile Jeffrey Epstein, after a overwhelming vote in the House of Representatives and a change of position by Donald Trump and his Republican allies. The White House gave in after months of trying to delay the joint action involving a case that has plagued the president since his return to the White House.
Swift Passage in Congress
Senators proceeded by consensus, which requires approval from each senator but does not require a formal roll call vote, accelerating the process. Hours earlier, the House overwhelmingly approved the bill on a massive majority.
The public have waited long enough. The survivors have waited long enough,” the Senate Democratic leader said in a floor speech on Tuesday, before asking the chamber to approve it without opposition. “Uncover the facts. Allow openness to prevail.”
Next Steps
This legislation next goes to Donald Trump for his endorsement. He stated on Monday that he would sign the measure.
Though the president has for an extended period dismissed the controversy over the government’s handling of the investigation as a “political stunt”, he voiced approval for the measure over the weekend, and stated he would give his assent if it reaches his desk.
Response
The Democratic party, along with those affected and their supporters who were seated in a viewing area, broke into applause after the bill was enacted. Lone dissent came from Clay Higgins, who stated he worried the measure would make public specific data of individuals involved, those under scrutiny and others implicated in the investigation.
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