The upper chamber of Congress on Tuesday quickly approved to a measure that will require the publication of investigative files associated with the deceased pedophile Jeffrey Epstein, following a overwhelming vote in the House of Representatives and a change of position by Donald Trump and his GOP allies. Trump's team changed course after an extended period of trying to forestall the bipartisan effort involving a scandal that has plagued the president since his return to the White House.
Swift Approval in Congress
The Senate acted by general agreement, which needs acceptance from each senator but avoids a recorded vote, expediting the process. Earlier that day, the House voted decisively for the bill on a massive majority.
The public have endured sufficient delay. The survivors have suffered long enough,” the top Senate Democrat said in a address to the chamber on Tuesday, before asking the Senate to approve it without opposition. “Let the truth come out. Allow openness to prevail.”
Next Steps
The measure next goes to Donald Trump for his endorsement. The president stated on the previous day that he would approve the bill.
Although the president has for an extended period rejected the uproar over the government’s handling of the Epstein case as a “political stunt”, he signalled his support for the legislation over the past few days, and stated he would approve it if it reaches his desk.
Reaction
Opposition lawmakers, along with victims and their supporters who were present in a House gallery, applauded after the bill was enacted. The only opposition came from a Louisiana Republican, who said he worried the measure would disclose personal information of people, potential suspects and others caught up in the investigation.
Other News Updates
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- A significant number of Department of Education's authorities moved to other branches as part of administration efforts.
- Large-scale operations move to North Carolina capital, with local officials noting ongoing activities.
