The upper chamber of Congress on this Tuesday quickly approved to legislation that will require the publication of investigative files related to the late sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, after a overwhelming vote in the US House of Representatives and a reversal by Donald Trump and his Republican allies. The White House changed course after an extended period of trying to delay the bipartisan effort involving a scandal that has plagued the president since his comeback to the White House.
Swift Passage in Congress
The Senate acted by general agreement, which needs acceptance from each senator but avoids a recorded vote, accelerating the process. Earlier that day, the House passed by a huge margin the bill on a 427-1 tally.
The public have waited long enough. The survivors have waited patiently,” the Senate Democratic leader said in a floor speech on Tuesday, before urging the chamber to approve it without opposition. “Reveal the truth. Ensure full disclosure.”
Future Action
The measure next will be sent to Donald Trump for his endorsement. Trump indicated on the previous day that he would endorse the legislation.
Even though Trump has for months dismissed the uproar over the government’s handling of the investigation as a “false narrative”, he signalled his support for the measure over the past few days, and said he would approve it if it reaches his desk.
Support and Opposition
The Democratic party, along with victims and their representatives who were present in a House gallery, cheered after the bill was passed. The sole “no” vote came from Clay Higgins, who stated he worried the measure would make public personal information of people, potential suspects and others caught up in the investigation.
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