The Senate on this Tuesday gave swift approval to legislation that will require the publication of case documents concerning the late sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, after a near-unanimous vote in the US House of Representatives and a reversal by Donald Trump and his GOP 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.
Unanimous Approval in Congress
Senators proceeded by unanimous consent, which requires approval from each senator but does not require a formal roll call vote, accelerating the process. Hours earlier, the House overwhelmingly approved the bill on a 427-1 tally.
“The American people have been patient long enough. Jeffrey Epstein’s victims have suffered long enough,” the Senate Democratic leader stated in a floor speech on Tuesday, before asking the Senate to approve it without opposition. “Let the truth come out. Ensure full disclosure.”
Next Steps
The bill next will be sent to Donald Trump for his approval. Trump indicated on the previous day that he would approve the bill.
Though Trump has for an extended period rejected the outcry over the government’s handling of the investigation as a “political stunt”, he signalled his support for the legislation over the past few days, and stated he would approve it if it reaches his desk.
Reaction
The Democratic party, along with survivors of Epstein and their supporters who were seated in a public section, cheered after the bill was passed. Lone dissent came from Clay Higgins, who stated he feared the measure would reveal personal information of individuals involved, potential suspects and others caught up in the investigation.
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