The upper chamber of Congress on Tuesday gave swift approval to a measure that will require the publication of official records related to the deceased pedophile Jeffrey Epstein, following a overwhelming vote in the US House of Representatives and a change of position by Donald Trump and his Republican allies. Trump's team changed course after months of trying to block the bipartisan effort involving a scandal that has followed the president since his comeback to the White House.
Unanimous Approval in Both Chambers
Senators proceeded by consensus, which requires approval from each senator but avoids a recorded vote, expediting the process. Hours earlier, the House voted decisively for the bill on a 427-1 tally.
The public have endured sufficient delay. The survivors have waited long enough,” the Senate Democratic leader stated in a address to the chamber on Tuesday, before requesting the Senate to approve it without opposition. “Uncover the facts. Allow openness to prevail.”
Next Steps
The measure next will be sent to Donald Trump for his endorsement. The president signaled on Monday that he would sign the measure.
Even though Trump has for months rejected the controversy over the government’s handling of the investigation as a “false narrative”, he expressed his backing for the measure over the past few days, and said he would approve it if it comes to him.
Reaction
Opposition lawmakers, along with victims and their representatives who were seated in a House gallery, applauded after the bill was passed. Lone dissent came from a GOP representative, who stated he was concerned the measure would make public identifying details of people, potential suspects and others involved in the investigation.
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