The Senate on Tuesday passed without delay to a measure that will mandate the disclosure of case documents related to the deceased sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, following a almost unanimous vote in the lower house and a reversal by the president and his GOP allies. The administration gave in after months of trying to delay the bipartisan effort involving a case that has plagued the president since his return to the White House.
Unanimous Approval in Both Chambers
Senators proceeded by general agreement, which requires approval from each senator but does not require a recorded vote, expediting the process. Hours earlier, the House passed by a huge margin the bill on a near-unanimous vote.
Citizens have been patient long enough. The survivors have waited long enough,” the Senate Democratic leader said in a floor speech on Tuesday, before urging the chamber to adopt it by consent. “Reveal the truth. Ensure full disclosure.”
Future Action
The measure next will be sent to the president for his endorsement. He stated on Monday that he would endorse the legislation.
Although Trump has for months rejected the uproar over the official management of the scandal as a “Democrat hoax”, he signalled his support for the legislation over the past few days, and announced he would sign the measure if it comes to him.
Response
Opposition lawmakers, along with those affected and their supporters who were watching from a viewing area, cheered after the bill was passed. The sole “no” vote came from a Louisiana Republican, who expressed concern he was concerned the measure would disclose identifying details of witnesses, those under scrutiny and others implicated in the investigation.
Other News Updates
- Trump is under fire for labeling a correspondent as ‘piggy’ during a disagreement onboard Air Force One.
- Federal judge rejects ‘discriminatory’ maps in Texas that allocated GOP more districts.
- Many of US education agency’s responsibilities transferred to different agencies as part of administration efforts.
- Raids extend to Raleigh, with local officials confirming ongoing activities.
