The Senate on this Tuesday gave swift approval to a measure that will force the release of official records related to the deceased sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, after a almost unanimous vote in the US House of Representatives and a shift by Donald Trump and his Republican allies. Trump's team gave in after months of trying to delay the joint action involving a controversy that has plagued the president since his comeback to the White House.
Expedited Approval in Both Chambers
Senators proceeded by unanimous consent, which requires approval from each senator but avoids a recorded vote, expediting the process. Earlier that day, the House voted decisively for the bill on a 427-1 tally.
Citizens have waited long enough. The survivors have waited long enough,” Chuck Schumer said in a floor speech on Tuesday, before asking the chamber to pass it unanimously. “Let the truth come out. Allow openness to prevail.”
Next Steps
This legislation next heads to the president for his approval. He indicated on the previous day that he would sign the measure.
Although the president has for an extended period rejected the outcry over the official management of the investigation as a “Democrat hoax”, he expressed his backing for the legislation over the past few days, and said he would sign the measure if it reaches his desk.
Reaction
Opposition lawmakers, along with victims and their supporters who were present in a House gallery, applauded after the bill was approved. Lone dissent came from a Louisiana Republican, who expressed concern he worried the measure would reveal identifying details of witnesses, persons of interest and others implicated in the investigation.
Other News Updates
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- Many of US education agency’s responsibilities moved to different agencies as part of administration efforts.
- Large-scale operations extend to Raleigh, with local officials noting ongoing activities.
