The Senate on this Tuesday gave swift approval to legislation that will mandate the disclosure of investigative files concerning the deceased pedophile Jeffrey Epstein, following a almost unanimous vote in the lower house and a change of position by Donald Trump and his Republican allies. Trump's team changed course after months of trying to delay the joint action involving a case that has dogged the president since his return to the White House.
Swift Approval in Both Chambers
The Senate acted by consensus, which needs acceptance from each senator but avoids a formal roll call vote, accelerating the process. Hours earlier, the House voted decisively for the bill on a 427-1 tally.
Citizens have been patient long enough. Jeffrey Epstein’s victims have suffered long enough,” Chuck Schumer declared in a floor speech on Tuesday, before asking the chamber to pass it unanimously. “Reveal the truth. Let transparency reign.”
Future Action
This legislation next goes to Trump for his signature. He stated on Monday that he would endorse the legislation.
Although Trump has for months dismissed the outcry over the government’s handling of the investigation as a “false narrative”, he signalled his support for the legislation over the past few days, and said he would approve it if it comes to him.
Support and Opposition
The Democratic party, along with victims and their advocates who were present in a viewing area, applauded after the bill was approved. Lone dissent came from a Louisiana Republican, who stated he feared the measure would make public specific data of witnesses, persons of interest and others caught up in the investigation.
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