The upper chamber of Congress on Tuesday passed without delay to a measure that will force the release of investigative files related to the deceased sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, following a overwhelming vote in the lower house and a reversal by Donald Trump and his Republican allies. Trump's team changed course after an extended period of trying to delay the cross-party initiative involving a controversy that has followed the president since his comeback to the White House.
Swift Approval in Both Chambers
Senators proceeded by consensus, which requires approval from each senator but does not require a recorded vote, expediting the process. Hours earlier, the House voted decisively for the bill on a 427-1 tally.
Citizens have waited long enough. Those affected have waited patiently,” the top Senate Democrat stated in a floor speech on Tuesday, before urging the chamber to approve it without opposition. “Uncover the facts. Allow openness to prevail.”
Presidential Signature
This legislation next will be sent to Trump for his approval. The president signaled on Monday that he would endorse the legislation.
Although Trump has for months downplayed the uproar over the authorities' approach of the scandal as a “political stunt”, he voiced approval for the House bill over the past few days, and stated he would sign the measure if it reaches his desk.
Reaction
The Democratic party, along with survivors of Epstein and their representatives who were seated in a public section, applauded after the bill was enacted. The only opposition came from a GOP representative, who said he feared the measure would make public identifying details of people, those under scrutiny and others implicated in the investigation.
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