The upper chamber of Congress on Tuesday passed without delay to a bill that will force the release of investigative files related to the deceased sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, following a near-unanimous vote in the House of Representatives and a reversal by Donald Trump and his Republican allies. Trump's team relented after an extended period of trying to forestall the joint action involving a controversy that has followed the president since his return to the White House.
Unanimous Passage in Congress
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 427-1 tally.
The public have waited long enough. Those affected have suffered long enough,” the Senate Democratic leader said in a floor speech on Tuesday, before asking the chamber to pass it unanimously. “Reveal the truth. Ensure full disclosure.”
Next Steps
This legislation next goes to the president for his signature. The president stated on the previous day that he would sign the measure.
Although Trump has for months rejected the outcry over the official management of the scandal as a “false narrative”, he voiced approval for the measure over the past few days, and said he would sign the measure if it comes to him.
Response
Opposition lawmakers, along with survivors of Epstein and their representatives who were present in a viewing area, applauded after the bill was passed. The sole “no” vote came from Clay Higgins, who stated he was concerned the measure would disclose specific data of individuals involved, potential suspects and others implicated in the investigation.
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