The Senate on this Tuesday gave swift approval to a measure that will mandate the disclosure of case documents related to the deceased sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, after a overwhelming vote in the House of Representatives and a reversal by Donald Trump and his Republican allies. Trump's team relented after an extended period of trying to delay the joint action involving a controversy that has dogged the president since his return to the White House.
Expedited Approval in Congress
The Senate acted by unanimous consent, which requires approval from each senator but does not require a recorded vote, speeding up the process. Earlier that day, the House voted decisively for the bill on a massive majority.
“The American people have been patient long enough. Those affected have waited patiently,” the Senate Democratic leader stated in a address to the chamber on Tuesday, before asking the Senate to pass it unanimously. “Reveal the truth. Ensure full disclosure.”
Future Action
This legislation next heads to Trump for his signature. Trump signaled on the previous day that he would sign the measure.
Although the president has for an extended period dismissed the controversy over the authorities' approach of the investigation as a “political stunt”, he signalled his support for the House bill over the weekend, and stated he would give his assent if it is presented to him.
Reaction
The Democratic party, along with victims and their supporters who were seated in a House gallery, applauded after the bill was passed. Lone dissent came from a Louisiana Republican, who expressed concern he worried the measure would disclose specific data of individuals involved, persons of interest and others involved in the investigation.
Other News Updates
- The president is under fire for labeling a female Bloomberg reporter as ‘piggy’ during a disagreement onboard Air Force One.
- Judge blocks ‘racially gerrymandered’ maps in Texas that awarded Republicans extra districts.
- A significant number of Department of Education's authorities reassigned to different agencies as part of administration efforts.
- Mass federal immigration sweeps expand to Raleigh, with representatives confirming ongoing activities.
