The upper chamber of Congress on Tuesday gave swift approval to legislation that will mandate the disclosure of case documents concerning the late sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, following a almost unanimous vote in the House of Representatives and a reversal by the president and his Republican allies. Trump's team changed course after an extended period of trying to delay the bipartisan effort involving a case that has dogged the president since his comeback to the White House.
Swift Passage in Both Chambers
Senators proceeded by general agreement, which requires approval from each senator but avoids a recorded vote, accelerating the process. Earlier that day, the House overwhelmingly approved the bill on a 427-1 tally.
Citizens have waited long enough. Those affected have suffered long enough,” Chuck Schumer stated in a floor speech on Tuesday, before requesting the chamber to approve it without opposition. “Reveal the truth. Ensure full disclosure.”
Future Action
The measure next goes to Trump for his approval. The president indicated on the previous day that he would approve the bill.
Though Trump has for months downplayed the controversy over the authorities' approach of the investigation as a “false narrative”, he signalled his support for the House bill over the past few days, and said he would give his assent if it reaches his desk.
Response
Democrats, along with those affected and their advocates who were seated in a public section, applauded after the bill was passed. Lone dissent came from Clay Higgins, who expressed concern he was concerned the measure would disclose personal information of witnesses, persons of interest and others caught up in the investigation.
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