The Senate on this Tuesday quickly approved to a bill that will force the release of investigative files concerning the deceased pedophile Jeffrey Epstein, after a overwhelming vote in the House of Representatives and a reversal by Donald Trump and his GOP allies. Trump's team changed course after months of trying to forestall the joint action involving a scandal that has dogged the president since his comeback to the White House.
Unanimous Approval in Congress
Senators proceeded by consensus, which needs acceptance from each senator but does not require a recorded vote, accelerating the process. Just before, the House overwhelmingly approved the bill on a 427-1 tally.
“The American people have been patient long enough. Those affected have waited long enough,” the Senate Democratic leader said 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
The measure next heads to the president for his endorsement. He stated on Monday that he would endorse the legislation.
Even though Trump has for months downplayed the controversy over the authorities' approach of the Epstein case as a “false narrative”, he voiced approval for the measure over the weekend, and said he would sign the measure if it is presented to him.
Response
Democrats, along with those affected and their representatives who were seated in a viewing area, applauded after the bill was enacted. The sole “no” vote came from a Louisiana Republican, who stated he was concerned the measure would make public identifying details of individuals involved, potential suspects and others implicated in the investigation.
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