Senate Greenlights Legislation to Disclose Epstein Files
The Senate on Tuesday passed without delay to a bill that will require the publication of official records related to the deceased sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, following a overwhelming vote in the House of Representatives and a reversal by the president and his GOP allies. The administration changed course after months of trying to delay the cross-party initiative involving a case that has dogged the president since his comeback to the White House.
Unanimous Approval in Congress
Senators proceeded by consensus, which needs acceptance from each senator but does not require a individual voting process, speeding up the process. Just before, the House passed by a huge margin the bill on a 427-1 tally.
Citizens have been patient long enough. Those affected have waited patiently,” Chuck Schumer declared in a Senate remarks on Tuesday, before asking the chamber to pass it unanimously. “Let the truth come out. Allow openness to prevail.”
Next Steps
The bill next heads to Trump for his approval. He indicated on Monday that he would approve the bill.
Though the president has for months downplayed the uproar over the government’s handling of the scandal as a “political stunt”, he signalled his support for the House bill over the weekend, and announced he would approve it if it reaches his desk.
Support and Opposition
The Democratic party, along with survivors of Epstein and their representatives who were present in a viewing area, applauded after the bill was approved. The only opposition came from Clay Higgins, who said he feared the measure would reveal personal information of individuals involved, those under scrutiny and others involved in the investigation.
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