The upper chamber of Congress on this Tuesday gave swift approval to a measure that will force the release of official records concerning the late pedophile Jeffrey Epstein, following a almost unanimous vote in the lower house and a change of position by Donald Trump and his Republican allies. The administration relented after an extended period of trying to block the bipartisan effort involving a controversy that has followed the president since his comeback to the White House.
Unanimous Approval in Both Chambers
Senators proceeded by general agreement, which requires approval from each senator but avoids a formal roll call vote, accelerating the process. Hours earlier, the House passed by a huge margin the bill on a massive majority.
The public have been patient long enough. Those affected have waited patiently,” the Senate Democratic leader declared in a address to the chamber on Tuesday, before requesting the chamber to pass it unanimously. “Uncover the facts. Let transparency reign.”
Next Steps
This legislation next goes to Trump for his approval. Trump stated on the previous day that he would sign the measure.
Though the president has for months rejected the uproar over the authorities' approach of the investigation as a “political stunt”, he signalled his support for the House bill over the weekend, and said he would sign the measure if it reaches his desk.
Support and Opposition
Democrats, along with victims and their advocates who were watching from a viewing area, cheered after the bill was approved. The sole “no” vote came from a GOP representative, who stated he feared the measure would make public specific data of individuals involved, potential suspects and others caught up in the investigation.
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