The Senate on Tuesday gave swift approval to legislation that will force the release of investigative files concerning the late sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, following a overwhelming vote in the lower house and a shift by the president and his Republican allies. Trump's team changed course after an extended period of trying to forestall the bipartisan effort involving a scandal that has followed the president since his comeback to the White House.
Expedited Approval in Both Chambers
Senators proceeded by consensus, which requires approval from each senator but does not require a formal roll call vote, speeding up the process. Hours earlier, the House voted decisively for the bill on a massive majority.
The public have been patient long enough. Those affected have suffered long enough,” the top Senate Democrat said in a address to the chamber on Tuesday, before asking the chamber to pass it unanimously. “Uncover the facts. Ensure full disclosure.”
Future Action
The bill next will be sent to Trump for his signature. Trump indicated on the previous day that he would sign the measure.
Though the president has for an extended period downplayed the uproar over the government’s handling of the scandal as a “Democrat hoax”, he signalled his support for the legislation over the weekend, and said he would give his assent if it is presented to him.
Response
Democrats, along with victims and their advocates who were present in a public section, broke into applause after the bill was approved. The only opposition came from a GOP representative, who stated he feared the measure would make public specific data of witnesses, potential suspects and others involved in the investigation.
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