The upper chamber of Congress on this Tuesday passed without delay to a measure that will force the release of investigative files concerning the late pedophile Jeffrey Epstein, after a overwhelming vote in the House of Representatives and a change of position by Donald Trump and his Republican allies. The White House gave in after months of trying to delay the cross-party initiative involving a controversy that has dogged the president since his return to the White House.
Swift Passage in Congress
Senators proceeded by general agreement, which needs acceptance from each senator but does not require a recorded vote, accelerating the process. Just before, the House overwhelmingly approved the bill on a massive majority.
The public have waited long enough. The survivors have waited long enough,” Chuck Schumer declared in a floor speech on Tuesday, before asking the Senate to approve it without opposition. “Reveal the truth. Let transparency reign.”
Next Steps
This legislation next heads to Donald Trump for his approval. He signaled on Monday that he would approve the bill.
Even though Trump has for an extended period dismissed the controversy over the authorities' approach of the investigation as a “Democrat hoax”, he expressed his backing for the measure over the past few days, and stated he would approve it if it reaches his desk.
Reaction
The Democratic party, along with survivors of Epstein and their advocates who were present in a viewing area, cheered after the bill was enacted. The only opposition came from Clay Higgins, who stated he worried the measure would reveal specific data of individuals involved, persons of interest and others caught up in the investigation.
Other News Updates
- The president receives backlash for labeling a female Bloomberg reporter as ‘piggy’ during a clash aboard Air Force One.
- Judge blocks ‘racially gerrymandered’ maps in Texas that gave GOP extra districts.
- A significant number of US education agency’s responsibilities transferred to other federal departments as part of administration efforts.
- Raids move to the state's capital, with authorities reporting ongoing activities.
