The Senate on Tuesday gave swift approval to legislation that will require the publication of official records associated with the late sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, after a overwhelming vote in the House of Representatives and a reversal by Donald Trump and his GOP allies. The administration gave in after months of trying to forestall the bipartisan effort involving a case that has followed the president since his return to the White House.
Swift Approval in Both Chambers
Senators proceeded by unanimous consent, which requires approval from each senator but does not require a individual voting process, speeding up the process. Earlier that day, the House passed by a huge margin the bill on a massive majority.
Citizens have waited long enough. Those affected have waited patiently,” Chuck Schumer stated in a floor speech on Tuesday, before asking the Senate to adopt it by consent. “Let the truth come out. Allow openness to prevail.”
Next Steps
The measure next goes to Donald Trump for his endorsement. The president signaled on the previous day that he would endorse the legislation.
Even though the president has for months dismissed the uproar over the government’s handling of the Epstein case as a “false narrative”, he expressed his backing for the House bill over the weekend, and said he would sign the measure if it is presented to him.
Reaction
Democrats, along with survivors of Epstein and their advocates who were seated in a viewing area, broke into applause after the bill was approved. The sole “no” vote came from Clay Higgins, who stated he was concerned the measure would disclose identifying details of individuals involved, potential suspects and others involved in the investigation.
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