The Senate on Tuesday gave swift approval to legislation that will require the publication of official records concerning the late sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, following a overwhelming vote in the US House of Representatives and a shift by Donald Trump and his Republican allies. The White House changed course after an extended period of trying to forestall the bipartisan effort involving a scandal that has dogged the president since his comeback to the White House.
Swift Approval in Both Chambers
The Senate acted by unanimous consent, which needs acceptance from each senator but does not require a individual voting process, speeding up the process. Hours earlier, the House voted decisively for the bill on a 427-1 tally.
The public have waited long enough. The survivors have waited long enough,” the Senate Democratic leader said in a floor speech on Tuesday, before urging the Senate to approve it without opposition. “Reveal the truth. Let transparency reign.”
Next Steps
The measure next will be sent to Donald Trump for his approval. The president indicated on the previous day that he would sign the measure.
Even though Trump has for months downplayed the outcry over the authorities' approach of the Epstein case as a “political stunt”, he expressed his backing for the measure over the weekend, and stated he would sign the measure if it comes to him.
Support and Opposition
Opposition lawmakers, along with victims and their representatives who were present in a public section, applauded after the bill was enacted. The sole “no” vote came from a Louisiana Republican, who said he was concerned the measure would make public identifying details of individuals involved, persons of interest and others involved in the investigation.
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