The upper chamber of Congress on this Tuesday passed without delay to a bill that will require the publication of investigative files concerning the late sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, following a almost unanimous vote in the lower house and a reversal by the president and his Republican allies. Trump's team changed course after an extended period of trying to block the bipartisan effort involving a controversy that has followed the president since his return to the White House.
Swift Approval in Congress
Senators proceeded by consensus, which needs acceptance from each senator but avoids a formal roll call vote, expediting the process. Earlier that day, the House passed by a huge margin the bill on a massive majority.
The public have endured sufficient delay. Those affected have suffered long enough,” the Senate Democratic leader declared in a floor speech on Tuesday, before requesting the chamber to pass it unanimously. “Uncover the facts. Allow openness to prevail.”
Presidential Signature
The measure next heads to the president for his signature. The president indicated on Monday that he would endorse the legislation.
Though Trump has for an extended period rejected the controversy over the government’s handling of the investigation as a “political stunt”, he voiced approval for the measure over the weekend, and said he would sign the measure if it reaches his desk.
Reaction
The Democratic party, along with those affected and their representatives who were present in a public section, cheered after the bill was passed. Lone dissent came from Clay Higgins, who stated he was concerned the measure would make public specific data of people, potential suspects and others implicated in the investigation.
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