The upper chamber of Congress on this Tuesday gave swift approval to legislation that will require the publication of official records associated with the late pedophile Jeffrey Epstein, after a near-unanimous vote in the lower house and a reversal by Donald Trump and his Republican allies. Trump's team gave in after months of trying to forestall the joint action involving a scandal that has dogged the president since his return to the White House.
Unanimous Passage in Both Chambers
The Senate acted by general agreement, which needs acceptance from each senator but avoids a formal roll call vote, expediting the process. Earlier that day, the House passed by a huge margin the bill on a massive majority.
The public have waited long enough. The survivors have waited long enough,” the top Senate Democrat said in a floor speech on Tuesday, before requesting the chamber to approve it without opposition. “Let the truth come out. Allow openness to prevail.”
Presidential Signature
The measure next heads to the president for his approval. He stated on the previous day that he would approve the bill.
Though the president has for an extended period rejected the uproar over the government’s handling of the Epstein case as a “political stunt”, he signalled his support for the measure over the past few days, and announced he would give his assent if it comes to him.
Support and Opposition
Opposition lawmakers, along with survivors of Epstein and their representatives who were present in a public section, applauded after the bill was approved. The sole “no” vote came from Clay Higgins, who stated he was concerned the measure would reveal personal information of individuals involved, those under scrutiny and others caught up in the investigation.
Other Stories
- The president faces criticism for referring to a correspondent as ‘piggy’ during a clash aboard Air Force One.
- Judge blocks ‘discriminatory’ maps in Texas that gave Republicans additional districts.
- A significant number of US education agency’s powers transferred to different agencies as part of White House efforts.
- Raids expand to the state's capital, with representatives reporting ongoing activities.
