The upper chamber of Congress on Tuesday quickly approved to legislation that will mandate the disclosure of official records concerning the deceased pedophile Jeffrey Epstein, after a almost unanimous vote in the lower house and a change of position by Donald Trump and his Republican allies. The administration changed course after an extended period of trying to forestall the cross-party initiative involving a case that has followed the president since his return to the White House.
Unanimous Passage in Both Chambers
Senators proceeded by general agreement, which requires approval from each senator but avoids a recorded vote, expediting the process. Just before, the House voted decisively for the bill on a near-unanimous vote.
Citizens have endured sufficient delay. Jeffrey Epstein’s victims have suffered long enough,” Chuck Schumer declared in a Senate remarks on Tuesday, before asking the Senate to pass it unanimously. “Reveal the truth. Let transparency reign.”
Presidential Signature
The measure next goes to the president for his endorsement. Trump stated on Monday that he would approve the bill.
Although Trump has for months downplayed the uproar over the government’s handling of the Epstein case as a “political stunt”, he voiced approval for the House bill over the past few days, and announced he would approve it if it is presented to him.
Reaction
The Democratic party, along with survivors of Epstein and their supporters who were present in a viewing area, broke into applause after the bill was passed. The sole “no” vote came from a Louisiana Republican, who stated he was concerned the measure would disclose identifying details of individuals involved, persons of interest and others implicated in the investigation.
Other News Updates
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- Federal judge blocks ‘discriminatory’ maps in the state of Texas that awarded GOP additional districts.
- A significant number of Department of Education's responsibilities moved to other branches as part of administration efforts.
- Mass federal immigration sweeps extend to Raleigh, with representatives noting ongoing activities.
