The Senate on Tuesday quickly approved to a bill that will mandate the disclosure of official records associated with the deceased sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, following a almost unanimous vote in the lower house and a change of position by Donald Trump and his GOP allies. Trump's team gave in after months of trying to delay the bipartisan effort 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 requires approval from each senator but does not require a recorded vote, accelerating the process. Just before, the House voted decisively for the bill on a massive majority.
Citizens have been patient long enough. Jeffrey Epstein’s victims have waited long enough,” the Senate Democratic leader stated in a address to the chamber on Tuesday, before asking the chamber to approve it without opposition. “Reveal the truth. Let transparency reign.”
Next Steps
This legislation next heads to Donald Trump for his signature. Trump indicated on the previous day that he would endorse the legislation.
Even though Trump has for months dismissed the uproar over the authorities' approach of the scandal as a “Democrat hoax”, he voiced approval for the House bill over the weekend, and announced he would sign the measure if it comes to him.
Support and Opposition
The Democratic party, along with survivors of Epstein and their supporters who were present in a viewing area, cheered after the bill was enacted. The sole “no” vote came from Clay Higgins, who expressed concern he was concerned the measure would reveal identifying details of people, potential suspects and others involved in the investigation.
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