The Senate on Tuesday passed without delay to a measure that will force the release of case documents concerning the late sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, after a overwhelming vote in the House of Representatives and a change of position by the president and his Republican allies. The White House relented after months of trying to forestall the joint action involving a case that has plagued the president since his comeback to the White House.
Expedited Approval in Both Chambers
The Senate acted by consensus, which requires approval from each senator but does not require a formal roll call vote, expediting the process. Just before, the House voted decisively for the bill on a 427-1 tally.
The public have waited long enough. Those affected have waited patiently,” the Senate Democratic leader declared in a floor speech on Tuesday, before asking the Senate to pass it unanimously. “Let the truth come out. Let transparency reign.”
Presidential Signature
This legislation next heads to Donald Trump for his endorsement. Trump signaled on the previous day that he would endorse the legislation.
Though Trump has for months downplayed the controversy over the government’s handling of the Epstein case as a “political stunt”, he expressed his backing for the measure over the past few days, and announced he would give his assent if it reaches his desk.
Response
Democrats, along with victims and their advocates who were seated in a public section, applauded after the bill was passed. The sole “no” vote came from a Louisiana Republican, who expressed concern he was concerned the measure would reveal specific data of witnesses, those under scrutiny and others implicated in the investigation.
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