The Senate on Tuesday quickly approved to legislation that will require the publication of official records associated with the late pedophile Jeffrey Epstein, following a almost unanimous vote in the lower house and a shift by the president and his Republican allies. The administration gave in after months of trying to block the bipartisan effort involving a controversy that has followed the president since his comeback to the White House.
Expedited Approval in Both Chambers
Senators proceeded by consensus, which needs acceptance from each senator but does not require a recorded vote, expediting the process. Earlier that day, the House overwhelmingly approved the bill on a near-unanimous vote.
“The American people have endured sufficient delay. Those affected have waited patiently,” the top Senate Democrat stated in a address to the chamber on Tuesday, before urging the Senate to adopt it by consent. “Let the truth come out. Ensure full disclosure.”
Future Action
The bill next will be sent to Donald Trump for his signature. Trump indicated on the previous day that he would approve the bill.
Even though Trump has for an extended period rejected the outcry over the government’s handling of the scandal as a “Democrat hoax”, he voiced approval for the measure over the past few days, and stated he would approve it if it reaches his desk.
Reaction
Opposition lawmakers, along with those affected and their advocates who were seated in a public section, applauded after the bill was approved. The only opposition came from a GOP representative, who said he worried the measure would disclose specific data of people, persons of interest and others implicated in the investigation.
Other Headlines
- Trump is under fire for calling a female Bloomberg reporter as ‘piggy’ during a disagreement onboard Air Force One.
- Federal judge blocks ‘racially gerrymandered’ maps in Texas that awarded GOP more districts.
- Many of US education agency’s authorities moved to other branches as part of administration efforts.
- Raids move to Raleigh, with authorities noting ongoing activities.
