The Senate on Tuesday passed without delay to legislation that will require the publication of investigative files concerning the late pedophile Jeffrey Epstein, after a near-unanimous vote in the US House of Representatives and a shift by Donald Trump and his GOP allies. Trump's team gave in after an extended period of trying to forestall the cross-party initiative involving a case that has followed the president since his return to the White House.
Unanimous Passage in Both Chambers
Senators proceeded by unanimous consent, which requires approval from each senator but avoids a recorded vote, expediting the process. Earlier that day, the House passed by a huge margin the bill on a 427-1 tally.
The public have been patient long enough. Those affected have suffered long enough,” the Senate Democratic leader stated in a Senate remarks on Tuesday, before urging the chamber to pass it unanimously. “Uncover the facts. Allow openness to prevail.”
Next Steps
The measure next goes to Donald Trump for his signature. Trump stated on the previous day that he would approve the bill.
Though the president has for months downplayed the controversy over the authorities' approach of the investigation as a “Democrat hoax”, he voiced approval for the legislation over the past few days, and announced he would give his assent if it comes to him.
Reaction
Democrats, along with survivors of Epstein and their supporters who were present in a House gallery, cheered after the bill was enacted. Lone dissent came from Clay Higgins, who said he was concerned the measure would disclose specific data of people, persons of interest and others involved in the investigation.
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