The Senate on Tuesday passed without delay to a bill that will force the release of case documents concerning the late sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, following a overwhelming vote in the lower house and a shift by the president and his Republican allies. The White House relented after months of trying to delay the joint action involving a controversy that has followed the president since his return to the White House.
Swift Approval in Both Chambers
The Senate acted by consensus, which needs acceptance from each senator but does not require a formal roll call vote, speeding up the process. Hours earlier, the House passed by a huge margin the bill on a massive majority.
The public have been patient long enough. Those affected have suffered long enough,” the top Senate Democrat declared in a Senate remarks on Tuesday, before requesting the chamber to approve it without opposition. “Uncover the facts. Ensure full disclosure.”
Presidential Signature
This legislation next goes to the president for his signature. He indicated on Monday that he would sign the measure.
Even though the president has for months downplayed the uproar over the government’s handling of the investigation as a “Democrat hoax”, he voiced approval for the legislation over the past few days, and stated he would sign the measure if it comes to him.
Reaction
The Democratic party, along with survivors of Epstein and their supporters who were present in a public section, cheered after the bill was approved. The only opposition came from Clay Higgins, who expressed concern he was concerned the measure would disclose personal information of individuals involved, persons of interest and others involved in the investigation.
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