The Senate on Tuesday passed without delay to a bill that will require the publication of case documents related to the late sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, following a overwhelming vote in the House of Representatives and a shift by the president and his Republican allies. The administration changed course after an extended period of trying to block the cross-party initiative involving a controversy that has dogged the president since his return to the White House.
Unanimous Passage in Congress
The Senate acted by unanimous consent, which requires approval from each senator but avoids a recorded vote, accelerating the process. Just before, the House overwhelmingly approved the bill on a 427-1 tally.
The public have been patient long enough. Those affected have waited patiently,” Chuck Schumer said in a Senate remarks on Tuesday, before requesting the Senate to adopt it by consent. “Uncover the facts. Let transparency reign.”
Future Action
The bill next goes to Donald Trump for his endorsement. Trump signaled on Monday that he would endorse the legislation.
Though the president has for months downplayed the uproar over the authorities' approach of the investigation as a “Democrat hoax”, he voiced approval for the House bill over the past few days, and announced he would approve it if it comes to him.
Reaction
The Democratic party, along with those affected and their supporters who were seated in a House gallery, broke into applause after the bill was approved. Lone dissent came from Clay Higgins, who expressed concern he feared the measure would make public specific data of individuals involved, potential suspects and others implicated in the investigation.
Other Stories
- Trump receives backlash for referring to a journalist as ‘piggy’ during a confrontation aboard Air Force One.
- Federal judge blocks ‘discriminatory’ maps in Texas that allocated GOP extra districts.
- A significant number of US education agency’s authorities moved to other branches as part of administration efforts.
- Mass federal immigration sweeps move to North Carolina capital, with local officials confirming ongoing activities.
