Senate Passes Legislation to Disclose Epstein Documents
The Senate on Tuesday quickly approved to a bill that will mandate the disclosure of investigative files related to the late sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, following a overwhelming vote in the US House of Representatives and a shift by Donald Trump and his Republican allies. Trump's team relented after an extended period of trying to block the cross-party initiative involving a case that has followed the president since his comeback to the White House.
Expedited Passage in Both Chambers
The Senate acted by consensus, which needs acceptance from each senator but avoids a formal roll call vote, accelerating the process. Just before, the House passed by a huge margin the bill on a near-unanimous vote.
“The American people have endured sufficient delay. Those affected have waited long enough,” the Senate Democratic leader said in a floor speech on Tuesday, before requesting the Senate to approve it without opposition. “Uncover the facts. Ensure full disclosure.”
Presidential Signature
The measure next will be sent to Trump for his approval. Trump signaled on the previous day that he would endorse the legislation.
Even though Trump has for months downplayed the outcry over the authorities' approach of the investigation as a “false narrative”, he voiced approval for the House bill over the weekend, and stated he would approve it if it comes to him.
Response
Opposition lawmakers, along with survivors of Epstein and their representatives who were present in a public section, cheered after the bill was enacted. Lone dissent came from a GOP representative, who stated he feared the measure would reveal personal information of witnesses, persons of interest and others involved in the investigation.
Additional Stories
- Trump receives backlash for referring to a correspondent as ‘piggy’ during a confrontation onboard Air Force One.
- Judge blocks ‘discriminatory’ maps in Texas that awarded GOP more districts.
- Many of US education agency’s responsibilities reassigned to different agencies as part of administration efforts.
- Raids extend to the state's capital, with representatives reporting ongoing activities.
