Congress Passes Measure to Release Jeffrey Epstein Records
The upper chamber of Congress on this Tuesday passed without delay to a bill that will require the publication of official records related to the deceased pedophile Jeffrey Epstein, following a overwhelming vote in the House of Representatives and a shift by the president and his GOP allies. Trump's team changed course after an extended period of trying to block the joint action involving a scandal that has dogged the president since his comeback to the White House.
Unanimous Approval in Both Chambers
The Senate acted by consensus, which requires approval from each senator but avoids a recorded vote, accelerating the process. Earlier that day, the House passed by a huge margin the bill on a massive majority.
“The American people have been patient long enough. Those affected have waited long enough,” the Senate Democratic leader stated in a Senate remarks on Tuesday, before urging the chamber to adopt it by consent. “Let the truth come out. Ensure full disclosure.”
Next Steps
The measure next heads to Donald Trump for his endorsement. He indicated on the previous day that he would approve the bill.
Even though the president has for an extended period dismissed the controversy over the government’s handling of the investigation as a “false narrative”, he expressed his backing for the measure over the weekend, and said he would give his assent if it is presented to him.
Reaction
The Democratic party, along with victims and their advocates who were seated in a viewing area, cheered after the bill was approved. The sole “no” vote came from Clay Higgins, who said he was concerned the measure would disclose personal information of people, potential suspects and others implicated in the investigation.
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