The Senate on Tuesday passed without delay to legislation that will require the publication of investigative files concerning the late pedophile Jeffrey Epstein, following a overwhelming vote in the US House of Representatives and a reversal by Donald Trump and his GOP allies. The administration changed course after months of trying to forestall the joint action involving a case that has dogged the president since his comeback to the White House.
Swift Passage in Congress
The Senate acted by consensus, which requires approval from each senator but avoids a recorded vote, expediting the process. Earlier that day, the House voted decisively for the bill on a 427-1 tally.
The public have endured sufficient delay. Jeffrey Epstein’s victims have suffered long enough,” the Senate Democratic leader declared in a address to the chamber on Tuesday, before requesting the chamber to adopt it by consent. “Reveal the truth. Let transparency reign.”
Next Steps
The bill next goes to Trump for his endorsement. The president indicated on Monday that he would approve the bill.
Although the president has for an extended period rejected the outcry 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 is presented to him.
Support and Opposition
Democrats, along with survivors of Epstein and their supporters who were present in a viewing area, applauded after the bill was approved. The sole “no” vote came from Clay Higgins, who said he was concerned the measure would disclose specific data of people, persons of interest and others caught up in the investigation.
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