The upper chamber of Congress on this Tuesday passed without delay to a bill that will require the publication of official records related to the late pedophile Jeffrey Epstein, after a almost unanimous vote in the US House of Representatives and a reversal by Donald Trump and his GOP allies. Trump's team relented after an extended period of trying to delay the bipartisan effort involving a controversy that has dogged the president since his return to the White House.
Expedited Passage in Both Chambers
The Senate acted by consensus, which requires approval from each senator but does not require a recorded vote, accelerating the process. Earlier that day, the House passed by a huge margin the bill on a massive majority.
“The American people have endured sufficient delay. The survivors have waited long enough,” the Senate Democratic leader said in a address to the chamber on Tuesday, before asking the Senate to pass it unanimously. “Reveal the truth. Ensure full disclosure.”
Presidential Signature
The bill next goes to Donald Trump for his endorsement. Trump indicated on Monday that he would sign the measure.
Even though the president has for months rejected the uproar over the authorities' approach of the investigation as a “Democrat hoax”, he voiced approval for the measure over the weekend, and said he would sign the measure if it comes to him.
Reaction
Democrats, along with victims and their supporters who were present in a public section, cheered after the bill was approved. The only opposition came from a GOP representative, who said he was concerned the measure would disclose identifying details of people, potential suspects and others involved in the investigation.
Other Headlines
- The president receives backlash for referring to a correspondent as ‘piggy’ during a confrontation aboard Air Force One.
- Judge rejects ‘discriminatory’ maps in Texas that awarded GOP additional districts.
- Many of Department of Education's responsibilities moved to other branches as part of White House efforts.
- Raids expand to the state's capital, with authorities reporting ongoing activities.
