The upper chamber of Congress on Tuesday gave swift approval to legislation that will require the publication of case documents related to the late sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, after a overwhelming vote in the US House of Representatives and a change of position by Donald Trump and his Republican allies. The administration changed course after months of trying to forestall the bipartisan effort involving a case that has dogged the president since his comeback to the White House.
Unanimous Approval in Both Chambers
Senators proceeded by consensus, which requires approval from each senator but does not require a individual voting process, accelerating the process. Just before, the House overwhelmingly approved the bill on a massive majority.
The public have been patient long enough. Those affected have suffered long enough,” Chuck Schumer said in a Senate remarks on Tuesday, before urging the chamber to approve it without opposition. “Let the truth come out. Ensure full disclosure.”
Future Action
The measure next will be sent to the president for his signature. He indicated on Monday that he would endorse the legislation.
Although Trump has for months downplayed the uproar over the authorities' approach of the scandal as a “political stunt”, he signalled his support for the legislation over the past few days, and announced he would approve it if it is presented to him.
Support and Opposition
Democrats, along with victims and their representatives who were present in a viewing area, applauded after the bill was approved. The sole “no” vote came from a GOP representative, who stated he worried the measure would reveal personal information of individuals involved, persons of interest and others caught up in the investigation.
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