The Senate on Tuesday gave swift approval to a measure that will force the release of case documents concerning the late pedophile Jeffrey Epstein, following a overwhelming vote in the House of Representatives and a change of position by the president and his GOP allies. The White House changed course after an extended period of trying to block the cross-party initiative involving a case that has plagued the president since his comeback to the White House.
Expedited Approval in Congress
Senators proceeded by unanimous consent, which needs acceptance from each senator but does not require a formal roll call vote, speeding up the process. Hours earlier, the House voted decisively for the bill on a 427-1 tally.
“The American people have endured sufficient delay. Those affected have waited patiently,” the Senate Democratic leader declared in a floor speech on Tuesday, before asking the chamber to approve it without opposition. “Uncover the facts. Ensure full disclosure.”
Next Steps
The measure next will be sent to Donald Trump for his endorsement. He indicated on Monday that he would sign the measure.
Though Trump has for an extended period dismissed the controversy over the official management of the investigation as a “false narrative”, he expressed his backing for the measure over the weekend, and said he would approve it if it comes to him.
Response
The Democratic party, along with those affected and their representatives who were present in a viewing area, cheered after the bill was passed. Lone dissent came from Clay Higgins, who said he feared the measure would reveal identifying details of individuals involved, those under scrutiny and others caught up in the investigation.
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