The upper chamber of Congress on this Tuesday gave swift approval to a bill that will force the release of investigative files concerning the deceased sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, following a overwhelming vote in the lower house and a shift by Donald Trump and his GOP allies. Trump's team relented after months of trying to delay the joint action involving a case that has followed the president since his comeback to the White House.
Expedited Passage in Congress
The Senate acted by unanimous consent, which requires approval from each senator but does not require a individual voting process, accelerating the process. Just before, the House voted decisively for the bill on a 427-1 tally.
The public have been patient long enough. The survivors have waited patiently,” the top Senate Democrat declared in a floor speech on Tuesday, before asking the Senate to approve it without opposition. “Reveal the truth. Let transparency reign.”
Future Action
The measure next goes to the president for his approval. Trump stated on Monday that he would approve the bill.
Even though the president has for months rejected the controversy over the government’s handling of the investigation as a “false narrative”, he voiced approval for the measure over the weekend, and said he would sign the measure if it comes to him.
Support and Opposition
Democrats, along with those affected and their representatives who were watching from a viewing area, broke into applause after the bill was enacted. The only opposition came from a Louisiana Republican, who expressed concern he worried the measure would make public specific data of individuals involved, potential suspects and others implicated in the investigation.
Other Headlines
- The president faces criticism for labeling a female Bloomberg reporter as ‘piggy’ during a disagreement onboard Air Force One.
- Federal judge disallows ‘discriminatory’ maps in the state of Texas that gave Republicans extra districts.
- A significant number of Department of Education's responsibilities transferred to different agencies as part of White House efforts.
- Mass federal immigration sweeps move to Raleigh, with authorities confirming ongoing activities.
