The Senate on Tuesday passed without delay to legislation that will force the release of official records concerning the late sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, after a overwhelming vote in the House of Representatives and a reversal by Donald Trump and his Republican allies. Trump's team relented after an extended period of trying to block the joint action involving a scandal that has plagued the president since his comeback to the White House.
Unanimous Approval in Congress
The Senate acted by consensus, which requires approval from each senator but does not require a formal roll call vote, expediting the process. Earlier that day, the House voted decisively for the bill on a massive majority.
Citizens have endured sufficient delay. Jeffrey Epstein’s victims have suffered long enough,” the top Senate Democrat stated in a address to the chamber on Tuesday, before requesting the chamber to pass it unanimously. “Reveal the truth. Allow openness to prevail.”
Presidential Signature
This legislation next will be sent to Trump for his endorsement. He signaled on the previous day that he would approve the bill.
Although the president has for months dismissed the outcry over the authorities' approach of the investigation as a “Democrat hoax”, he expressed his backing for the measure over the past few days, and announced he would give his assent if it comes to him.
Reaction
The Democratic party, along with survivors of Epstein and their representatives who were watching from a viewing area, broke into applause after the bill was passed. The only opposition came from a Louisiana Republican, who stated he worried the measure would make public personal information of individuals involved, potential suspects and others caught up in the investigation.
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