Congress Approves Legislation to Disclose Jeffrey Epstein Records
The upper chamber of Congress on this Tuesday passed without delay to a measure that will require the publication of investigative files associated with the late sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, following a almost unanimous vote in the House of Representatives and a reversal by Donald Trump and his Republican allies. The administration changed course after an extended period of trying to delay the joint action involving a controversy that has followed the president since his comeback to the White House.
Swift Approval in Both Chambers
Senators proceeded by general agreement, which requires approval from each senator but does not require a individual voting process, accelerating the process. Hours earlier, the House passed by a huge margin the bill on a massive majority.
The public have waited long enough. Those affected have waited long enough,” the Senate Democratic leader declared in a Senate remarks on Tuesday, before requesting the chamber to pass it unanimously. “Let the truth come out. Ensure full disclosure.”
Next Steps
This legislation next will be sent to Donald Trump for his endorsement. The president signaled on the previous day that he would sign the measure.
Although the president has for months dismissed the uproar over the authorities' approach of the scandal as a “political stunt”, he expressed his backing for the House bill over the weekend, and said he would give his assent if it is presented to him.
Reaction
The Democratic party, along with those affected and their advocates who were present in a public section, broke into applause after the bill was passed. The only opposition came from a GOP representative, who said he was concerned the measure would make public personal information of individuals involved, potential suspects and others involved in the investigation.
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