The upper chamber of Congress on this Tuesday gave swift approval to a measure that will require the publication of investigative files concerning the deceased sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, after a overwhelming vote in the US House of Representatives and a shift by Donald Trump and his GOP allies. The White House changed course after an extended period of trying to delay the joint action involving a controversy that has dogged the president since his comeback to the White House.
Swift Passage in Both Chambers
The Senate acted by consensus, which needs acceptance from each senator but does not require a recorded vote, accelerating the process. Hours earlier, the House passed by a huge margin the bill on a 427-1 tally.
Citizens have endured sufficient delay. Those affected have suffered long enough,” Chuck Schumer stated in a address to the chamber on Tuesday, before requesting the Senate to approve it without opposition. “Reveal the truth. Ensure full disclosure.”
Presidential Signature
The measure next goes to Donald Trump for his endorsement. The president signaled 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 scandal as a “political stunt”, he expressed his backing for the measure over the weekend, and stated he would sign the measure if it comes to him.
Reaction
Democrats, along with survivors of Epstein and their supporters who were seated in a House gallery, applauded after the bill was approved. Lone dissent came from Clay Higgins, who expressed concern he feared the measure would reveal identifying details of witnesses, persons of interest and others involved in the investigation.
Other Stories
- The president is under fire for labeling a journalist as ‘piggy’ during a disagreement onboard Air Force One.
- Judge blocks ‘racially gerrymandered’ maps in the state of Texas that allocated Republicans more districts.
- A significant number of US education agency’s authorities reassigned to different agencies as part of administration efforts.
- Raids expand to North Carolina capital, with representatives confirming ongoing activities.
