The Senate on Tuesday gave swift approval to a measure that will require the publication of case documents concerning the deceased sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, after a overwhelming vote in the lower house and a shift by the president and his GOP allies. The White House gave in after an extended period of trying to block the cross-party initiative involving a controversy that has dogged the president since his comeback to the White House.
Expedited Approval in Both Chambers
Senators proceeded by consensus, which requires approval from each senator but does not require a formal roll call vote, expediting the process. Earlier that day, the House voted decisively for the bill on a massive majority.
Citizens have waited long enough. Jeffrey Epstein’s victims have waited long enough,” the Senate Democratic leader stated in a address to the chamber on Tuesday, before requesting the chamber to pass it unanimously. “Uncover the facts. Ensure full disclosure.”
Presidential Signature
The bill next will be sent to Trump for his signature. He indicated on the previous day that he would sign the measure.
Although the president has for months downplayed the controversy over the authorities' approach of the Epstein case as a “Democrat hoax”, he signalled his support for the measure over the weekend, and announced he would give his assent if it is presented to him.
Response
Democrats, along with victims and their supporters who were watching from a public section, cheered after the bill was passed. The only opposition came from a Louisiana Republican, who said he feared the measure would disclose personal information of witnesses, potential suspects and others involved in the investigation.
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