The upper chamber of Congress on Tuesday gave swift approval to legislation that will require the publication of investigative files related to the late sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, following a near-unanimous vote in the lower house and a shift by Donald Trump and his Republican allies. Trump's team changed course after an extended period of trying to delay the cross-party initiative involving a scandal that has followed the president since his comeback to the White House.
Expedited Passage in Both Chambers
Senators proceeded by general agreement, which requires approval from each senator but avoids a formal roll call vote, accelerating the process. Earlier that day, the House voted decisively for the bill on a 427-1 tally.
“The American people have been patient long enough. Those affected have waited long enough,” Chuck Schumer declared in a address to the chamber on Tuesday, before urging the Senate to approve it without opposition. “Uncover the facts. Ensure full disclosure.”
Presidential Signature
The measure next will be sent to Trump for his approval. Trump stated on the previous day that he would approve the bill.
Although the president has for months dismissed the controversy over the official management of the Epstein case as a “political stunt”, he expressed his backing for the legislation over the weekend, and announced he would give his assent if it reaches his desk.
Reaction
Democrats, along with victims and their advocates who were seated in a House gallery, cheered after the bill was enacted. The sole “no” vote came from a GOP representative, who said he was concerned the measure would reveal identifying details of individuals involved, those under scrutiny and others caught up in the investigation.
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