The Senate on Tuesday gave swift approval to a measure that will mandate the disclosure of investigative files related to the late sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, following a overwhelming vote in the House of Representatives and a change of position by the president and his GOP allies. Trump's team relented after months of trying to forestall the bipartisan effort involving a scandal that has followed the president since his return to the White House.
Swift Passage in Both Chambers
Senators proceeded by consensus, which needs acceptance from each senator but does not require a recorded vote, accelerating the process. Earlier that day, the House voted decisively for the bill on a near-unanimous vote.
The public have endured sufficient delay. Those affected have suffered long enough,” Chuck Schumer said in a address to the chamber on Tuesday, before urging the chamber to adopt it by consent. “Let the truth come out. Allow openness to prevail.”
Presidential Signature
The measure next heads to Trump for his approval. The president stated on Monday that he would endorse the legislation.
Though Trump has for months downplayed the outcry over the official management of the Epstein case as a “Democrat hoax”, he signalled his support for the measure over the past few days, and stated he would sign the measure if it comes to him.
Support and Opposition
The Democratic party, along with victims and their supporters who were watching from a viewing area, cheered after the bill was passed. The only opposition came from a Louisiana Republican, who stated he was concerned the measure would reveal identifying details of individuals involved, those under scrutiny and others involved in the investigation.
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