The Senate on Tuesday passed without delay to legislation that will mandate the disclosure of official records concerning the deceased pedophile Jeffrey Epstein, following a overwhelming vote in the lower house and a reversal by the president and his Republican allies. The administration changed course after months of trying to delay the bipartisan effort involving a case that has followed the president since his comeback to the White House.
Expedited Passage in Both Chambers
The Senate acted by unanimous consent, which needs acceptance from each senator but does not require a recorded vote, accelerating the process. Earlier that day, the House voted decisively for the bill on a massive majority.
Citizens have waited long enough. Those affected have waited patiently,” Chuck Schumer stated in a address to the chamber on Tuesday, before urging the chamber to approve it without opposition. “Uncover the facts. Ensure full disclosure.”
Presidential Signature
The bill next heads to the president for his endorsement. He stated on Monday that he would sign the measure.
Even though Trump has for an extended period dismissed the controversy over the authorities' approach of the scandal as a “political stunt”, he voiced approval for the legislation over the past few days, and announced he would approve it if it comes to him.
Reaction
Democrats, along with those affected and their supporters who were seated in a House gallery, applauded after the bill was enacted. Lone dissent came from a Louisiana Republican, who stated he feared the measure would make public identifying details of individuals involved, those under scrutiny and others caught up in the investigation.
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