The Senate on Tuesday passed without delay to a bill that will require the publication of investigative files related to the late sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, following a near-unanimous vote in the House of Representatives and a shift by the president and his Republican allies. Trump's team relented after an extended period of trying to block the bipartisan effort involving a case that has followed the president since his comeback to the White House.
Unanimous 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. Hours earlier, the House voted decisively for the bill on a 427-1 tally.
Citizens have been patient long enough. Those affected have waited long enough,” the Senate Democratic leader stated in a floor speech on Tuesday, before asking the Senate to approve it without opposition. “Reveal the truth. Ensure full disclosure.”
Future Action
The bill next will be sent to Trump for his signature. The president stated on Monday that he would sign the measure.
Although Trump has for months rejected the outcry over the official management of the Epstein case as a “Democrat hoax”, he voiced approval for the House bill over the past few days, and said he would give his assent if it is presented to him.
Reaction
Democrats, along with victims and their representatives who were seated in a House gallery, applauded after the bill was enacted. Lone dissent came from Clay Higgins, who said he feared the measure would reveal personal information of people, those under scrutiny and others caught up in the investigation.
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