The upper chamber of Congress on this Tuesday quickly approved to legislation that will require the publication of case documents concerning the late pedophile Jeffrey Epstein, after a overwhelming vote in the US House of Representatives and a change of position by Donald Trump and his GOP allies. The administration gave in after an extended period of trying to block the cross-party initiative involving a scandal that has followed the president since his comeback to the White House.
Unanimous Approval in Both Chambers
Senators proceeded by general agreement, which requires approval from each senator but does not require a formal roll call vote, expediting the process. Earlier that day, the House overwhelmingly approved the bill on a near-unanimous vote.
The public have been patient long enough. The survivors have waited long enough,” Chuck Schumer stated in a address to the chamber on Tuesday, before urging the Senate to approve it without opposition. “Uncover the facts. Ensure full disclosure.”
Presidential Signature
This legislation next heads to Donald Trump for his endorsement. Trump signaled on Monday that he would approve the bill.
Although Trump has for months rejected the outcry over the authorities' approach of the Epstein case as a “political stunt”, he signalled his support for the measure over the past few days, and announced he would give his assent if it comes to him.
Support and Opposition
Opposition lawmakers, 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 stated he feared the measure would make public specific data of individuals involved, potential suspects and others implicated in the investigation.
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