Senate Greenlights Measure to Release Jeffrey Epstein Files
The upper chamber of Congress on Tuesday gave swift approval to a bill that will force the release of official records associated with the late sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, after a almost unanimous vote in the lower house and a shift by the president and his Republican allies. Trump's team gave in after months of trying to forestall the cross-party initiative involving a scandal that has followed the president since his return to the White House.
Unanimous Passage in Both Chambers
Senators proceeded by unanimous consent, which requires approval from each senator but does not require a formal roll call vote, accelerating the process. Just before, the House voted decisively for the bill on a 427-1 tally.
Citizens have endured sufficient delay. Jeffrey Epstein’s victims have waited patiently,” the Senate Democratic leader said in a floor speech on Tuesday, before urging the Senate to adopt it by consent. “Reveal the truth. Ensure full disclosure.”
Future Action
The measure next will be sent to Donald Trump for his approval. Trump indicated on Monday that he would approve the bill.
Although the president has for an extended period rejected the uproar over the government’s handling of the investigation as a “false narrative”, he voiced approval for the legislation over the past few days, and announced he would give his assent if it reaches his desk.
Response
Democrats, along with victims and their representatives who were present in a House gallery, cheered after the bill was passed. The only opposition came from a Louisiana Republican, who stated he was concerned the measure would make public personal information of individuals involved, potential suspects and others involved in the investigation.
Additional News Updates
- The president receives backlash for referring to a female Bloomberg reporter as ‘piggy’ during a disagreement aboard Air Force One.
- Judge blocks ‘discriminatory’ maps in the state of Texas that awarded Republicans more districts.
- A significant number of US education agency’s powers moved to other branches as part of White House efforts.
- Raids move to the state's capital, with authorities reporting ongoing activities.
