The upper chamber of Congress on Tuesday gave swift approval to a measure that will require the publication of official records associated with the deceased pedophile Jeffrey Epstein, following a overwhelming vote in the House of Representatives and a reversal by the president and his Republican allies. The administration relented after months of trying to forestall the joint action involving a scandal that has followed the president since his return to the White House.
Expedited Approval in Congress
Senators proceeded by general agreement, which requires approval from each senator but does not require a individual voting process, speeding up the process. Earlier that day, the House voted decisively for the bill on a near-unanimous vote.
The public have waited long enough. Jeffrey Epstein’s victims have waited patiently,” the top Senate Democrat stated in a floor speech on Tuesday, before urging the chamber to adopt it by consent. “Reveal the truth. Ensure full disclosure.”
Presidential Signature
The bill next will be sent to the president for his endorsement. The president stated on Monday that he would endorse the legislation.
Even though the president has for months downplayed the uproar over the government’s handling of the investigation as a “political stunt”, he voiced approval for the measure over the weekend, and announced he would give his assent if it is presented to him.
Response
Opposition lawmakers, along with victims and their representatives who were watching from a public section, cheered after the bill was enacted. Lone dissent came from a Louisiana Republican, who said he was concerned the measure would reveal identifying details of individuals involved, persons of interest and others involved in the investigation.
Other Headlines
- The president faces criticism for referring to a correspondent as ‘piggy’ during a clash onboard Air Force One.
- Judge blocks ‘discriminatory’ maps in the state of Texas that allocated GOP more districts.
- Many of US education agency’s responsibilities moved to other branches as part of administration efforts.
- Raids extend to the state's capital, with authorities reporting ongoing activities.
