The Senate on Tuesday passed without delay to a bill that will mandate the disclosure of case documents concerning the deceased sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, after a overwhelming vote in the House of Representatives and a shift by the president and his GOP allies. Trump's team gave in after an extended period of trying to block the joint action involving a scandal that has dogged the president since his comeback to the White House.
Swift Approval in Both Chambers
The Senate acted by consensus, which requires approval from each senator but avoids a individual voting process, expediting the process. Just before, the House voted decisively for the bill on a 427-1 tally.
“The American people have been patient long enough. Those affected have suffered long enough,” Chuck Schumer declared in a floor speech on Tuesday, before asking the chamber to approve it without opposition. “Uncover the facts. Ensure full disclosure.”
Next Steps
This legislation next heads to the president for his endorsement. Trump stated on Monday that he would endorse the legislation.
Although the president has for months rejected the uproar over the authorities' approach of the scandal as a “political stunt”, he voiced approval for the House bill over the weekend, and said he would give his assent if it comes to him.
Response
Democrats, along with survivors of Epstein and their advocates who were watching from a viewing area, cheered after the bill was passed. Lone dissent came from Clay Higgins, who expressed concern he was concerned the measure would make public specific data of individuals involved, potential suspects and others caught up in the investigation.
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