Senate Greenlights Bill to Release Epstein Records
The Senate on Tuesday passed without delay to a measure that will force the release of official records concerning the late sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, following a almost unanimous vote in the House of Representatives and a change of position by the president and his Republican allies. The White House changed course after an extended period of trying to block the joint action involving a controversy that has followed 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 formal roll call vote, expediting the process. Earlier that day, the House passed by a huge margin the bill on a massive majority.
Citizens have been patient long enough. Jeffrey Epstein’s victims have waited patiently,” the top Senate Democrat declared in a Senate remarks on Tuesday, before urging the chamber to approve it without opposition. “Let the truth come out. Ensure full disclosure.”
Future Action
The measure next goes to the president for his approval. The president signaled on the previous day that he would sign the measure.
Though the president has for months downplayed the controversy over the authorities' approach of the scandal as a “false narrative”, he signalled his support for the legislation over the weekend, and announced he would approve it if it comes to him.
Reaction
Opposition lawmakers, along with victims and their representatives who were present in a House gallery, applauded after the bill was enacted. The only opposition came from Clay Higgins, who stated he worried the measure would disclose personal information of witnesses, persons of interest and others implicated in the investigation.
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