The Senate on Tuesday passed without delay to legislation that will force the release of official records associated with the deceased sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, after a overwhelming vote in the House of Representatives and a change of position by Donald Trump and his Republican allies. Trump's team relented after months of trying to delay the bipartisan effort involving a controversy that has followed the president since his comeback to the White House.
Swift Approval in Both Chambers
Senators proceeded by unanimous consent, which needs acceptance from each senator but does not require a formal roll call vote, expediting the process. Earlier that day, the House overwhelmingly approved the bill on a 427-1 tally.
The public have endured sufficient delay. Those affected have waited patiently,” the top Senate Democrat declared in a address to the chamber on Tuesday, before asking the Senate to adopt it by consent. “Uncover the facts. Let transparency reign.”
Next Steps
The measure next will be sent to the president for his approval. He signaled on the previous day that he would endorse the legislation.
Although the president has for an extended period rejected the outcry over the government’s handling of the scandal as a “Democrat hoax”, he signalled his support for the measure over the weekend, and announced he would give his assent if it comes to him.
Response
Opposition lawmakers, along with victims and their representatives who were seated in a public section, broke into applause after the bill was approved. The sole “no” vote came from a Louisiana Republican, who expressed concern he feared the measure would make public identifying details of people, those under scrutiny and others caught up in the investigation.
Other Stories
- The president is under fire for labeling a journalist as ‘piggy’ during a clash onboard Air Force One.
- Judge rejects ‘racially gerrymandered’ maps in Texas that gave Republicans extra districts.
- Many of US education agency’s authorities moved to other branches as part of administration efforts.
- Raids extend to the state's capital, with local officials confirming ongoing activities.
