Congress Greenlights Measure to Disclose Epstein Documents
The upper chamber of Congress on Tuesday gave swift approval to a bill that will force the release of investigative files concerning the late sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, following a near-unanimous vote in the US House of Representatives and a shift by Donald Trump and his GOP allies. The White House gave in after an extended period of trying to delay the cross-party initiative involving a controversy that has followed the president since his return to the White House.
Swift Passage in Congress
Senators proceeded by consensus, which needs acceptance from each senator but avoids 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. Those affected have waited long enough,” the Senate Democratic leader stated in a floor speech on Tuesday, before requesting the chamber to adopt it by consent. “Uncover the facts. Ensure full disclosure.”
Next Steps
The bill next heads to Donald Trump for his signature. He signaled on the previous day that he would approve the bill.
Though Trump has for months downplayed the controversy over the government’s handling of the investigation as a “false narrative”, he voiced approval for the measure over the past few days, and stated he would give his assent if it reaches his desk.
Support and Opposition
Opposition lawmakers, along with survivors of Epstein and their supporters who were watching from a public section, applauded after the bill was approved. The only opposition came from a Louisiana Republican, who said he worried the measure would reveal specific data of people, potential suspects and others implicated in the investigation.
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