The upper chamber of Congress on this Tuesday gave swift approval to a bill that will force the release of official records related to the late sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, following a overwhelming vote in the House of Representatives and a reversal by Donald Trump and his Republican allies. Trump's team changed course after months of trying to delay the cross-party initiative involving a controversy that has plagued the president since his comeback to the White House.
Expedited Approval in Both Chambers
Senators proceeded by unanimous consent, which requires approval from each senator but does not require a recorded vote, accelerating the process. Earlier that day, the House voted decisively for the bill on a massive majority.
Citizens have waited long enough. The survivors have waited long enough,” Chuck Schumer stated in a floor speech on Tuesday, before requesting the Senate to adopt it by consent. “Uncover the facts. Allow openness to prevail.”
Next Steps
The bill next heads to the president for his endorsement. The president stated on the previous day that he would approve the bill.
Even though Trump has for months dismissed the uproar over the official management of the scandal as a “political stunt”, he signalled his support for the measure over the past few days, and said he would give his assent if it is presented to him.
Reaction
Democrats, along with those affected and their advocates who were watching from a viewing area, cheered after the bill was enacted. The only opposition came from a GOP representative, who stated he worried the measure would reveal specific data of individuals involved, potential suspects and others caught up in the investigation.
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