The upper chamber of Congress on Tuesday passed without delay to a bill that will require the publication of case documents related to the deceased sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, following a overwhelming 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 block the joint action involving a controversy that has followed the president since his comeback to the White House.
Unanimous Approval in Congress
Senators proceeded by general agreement, which needs acceptance from each senator but avoids a formal roll call vote, speeding up the process. Hours earlier, the House voted decisively for the bill on a massive majority.
Citizens have been patient long enough. Those affected have suffered long enough,” the top Senate Democrat said in a Senate remarks on Tuesday, before urging the chamber to pass it unanimously. “Uncover the facts. Ensure full disclosure.”
Presidential Signature
The measure next will be sent to Trump for his signature. The president indicated on the previous day that he would endorse the legislation.
Though the president has for months rejected the uproar over the official management of the scandal as a “Democrat hoax”, he signalled his support for the measure over the weekend, and stated he would approve it if it is presented to him.
Reaction
The Democratic party, along with survivors of Epstein and their advocates who were watching from a viewing area, applauded after the bill was enacted. The sole “no” vote came from Clay Higgins, who said he feared the measure would make public specific data of individuals involved, potential suspects and others implicated in the investigation.
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