The upper chamber of Congress on Tuesday gave swift approval to a measure that will force the release of case documents associated with the late sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, after a almost unanimous vote in the House of Representatives and a shift by the president and his Republican allies. The administration changed course after months of trying to forestall the joint action involving a case that has followed the president since his return to the White House.
Unanimous Approval in Congress
Senators proceeded by consensus, which needs acceptance from each senator but avoids a individual voting process, expediting the process. Just before, the House overwhelmingly approved the bill on a near-unanimous vote.
“The American people have been patient long enough. The survivors have waited long enough,” the Senate Democratic leader said in a Senate remarks on Tuesday, before asking the chamber to pass it unanimously. “Uncover the facts. Allow openness to prevail.”
Presidential Signature
The measure next will be sent to Donald Trump for his signature. Trump stated on the previous day that he would sign the measure.
Although Trump has for an extended period downplayed the outcry 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 give his assent if it reaches his desk.
Support and Opposition
Democrats, along with those affected and their representatives who were watching from a House gallery, cheered after the bill was approved. The sole “no” vote came from a Louisiana Republican, who said he was concerned the measure would disclose specific data of individuals involved, those under scrutiny and others involved in the investigation.
Other News Updates
- The president receives backlash for referring to a female Bloomberg reporter as ‘piggy’ during a clash aboard Air Force One.
- Judge blocks ‘discriminatory’ maps in the state of Texas that allocated Republicans more districts.
- Many of US education agency’s powers reassigned to other branches as part of White House efforts.
- Mass federal immigration sweeps extend to Raleigh, with authorities confirming ongoing activities.
