Congress Approves Measure to Disclose Epstein Documents
The upper chamber of Congress on this Tuesday passed without delay to a measure that will force the release of official records concerning the late sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, following a overwhelming vote in the House of Representatives and a shift by the president and his GOP allies. The White House relented after an extended period of trying to block the joint action involving a scandal that has dogged the president since his return to the White House.
Swift Passage in Both Chambers
The Senate acted by unanimous consent, which requires approval from each senator but does not require a individual voting process, speeding up the process. Just before, the House voted decisively for the bill on a 427-1 tally.
“The American people have waited long enough. The survivors have waited patiently,” the Senate Democratic leader stated in a Senate remarks on Tuesday, before requesting the chamber to pass it unanimously. “Let the truth come out. Let transparency reign.”
Next Steps
The measure next goes to Donald Trump for his approval. Trump indicated on the previous day that he would approve the bill.
Though the president has for months downplayed the controversy over the authorities' approach of the scandal as a “false narrative”, he signalled his support for the legislation over the past few days, and announced he would approve it if it reaches his desk.
Response
Opposition lawmakers, along with victims and their advocates who were present in a House gallery, cheered after the bill was enacted. Lone dissent came from Clay Higgins, who expressed concern he was concerned the measure would disclose personal information of individuals involved, those under scrutiny and others involved in the investigation.
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