The Senate on Tuesday passed without delay to a bill that will force the release of case documents related to the deceased sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, following a overwhelming vote in the US House of Representatives and a shift by Donald Trump and his GOP allies. The administration relented after an extended period of trying to delay the joint action involving a controversy that has dogged the president since his comeback to the White House.
Unanimous Passage in Both Chambers
Senators proceeded by unanimous consent, which needs acceptance from each senator but does not require a formal roll call vote, accelerating the process. Earlier that day, the House overwhelmingly approved the bill on a massive majority.
“The American people have been patient long enough. Those affected have waited patiently,” the top Senate Democrat said in a floor speech on Tuesday, before urging the Senate to adopt it by consent. “Uncover the facts. Ensure full disclosure.”
Next Steps
This legislation next will be sent to Donald Trump for his approval. Trump signaled on the previous day that he would sign the measure.
Although the president has for months dismissed the controversy over the authorities' approach of the investigation as a “false narrative”, he expressed his backing for the measure over the weekend, and announced he would approve it if it reaches his desk.
Support and Opposition
Democrats, along with those affected and their advocates who were watching from a House gallery, cheered after the bill was approved. Lone dissent came from a Louisiana Republican, who expressed concern he worried the measure would make public identifying details of people, those under scrutiny and others caught up in the investigation.
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- The president faces criticism for labeling a journalist as ‘piggy’ during a confrontation onboard Air Force One.
- Federal judge blocks ‘discriminatory’ maps in the state of Texas that allocated Republicans more districts.
- A significant number of US education agency’s powers transferred to other branches as part of White House efforts.
- Raids expand to Raleigh, with representatives reporting ongoing activities.
