Congress Passes Legislation to Disclose Epstein Records
The upper chamber of Congress on Tuesday passed without delay to a bill that will force the release of case documents concerning the late sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, following a almost unanimous vote in the lower house and a change of position by Donald Trump and his GOP allies. Trump's team relented after months of trying to block the joint action involving a case that has dogged the president since his comeback to the White House.
Unanimous Approval in Both Chambers
Senators proceeded by consensus, which needs acceptance from each senator but does not require a individual voting process, speeding up the process. Just before, the House overwhelmingly approved the bill on a massive majority.
The public have been patient long enough. The survivors have waited long enough,” Chuck Schumer said in a address to the chamber on Tuesday, before asking the chamber to approve it without opposition. “Let the truth come out. Ensure full disclosure.”
Next Steps
This legislation next heads to Trump for his approval. He signaled on the previous day that he would endorse the legislation.
Though the president has for months rejected the uproar over the authorities' approach 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.
Reaction
Opposition lawmakers, along with those affected and their advocates who were seated in a House gallery, applauded after the bill was enacted. The only opposition came from a GOP representative, who expressed concern he was concerned the measure would make public identifying details of individuals involved, potential suspects and others involved in the investigation.
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