The Senate on Tuesday passed without delay to a measure that will force the release of investigative files related to the deceased sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, following a almost unanimous vote in the US House of Representatives and a change of position by Donald Trump and his Republican allies. The administration gave in after months of trying to delay the joint action involving a case that has plagued the president since his return to the White House.
Expedited Passage in Both Chambers
The Senate acted by consensus, which requires approval from each senator but does not require a formal roll call vote, speeding up the process. Earlier that day, the House voted decisively for the bill on a massive majority.
Citizens have waited long enough. Jeffrey Epstein’s victims have waited long enough,” the top Senate Democrat said 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 will be sent to Trump for his endorsement. The president indicated on the previous day that he would sign the measure.
Even though the president has for an extended period rejected the uproar over the authorities' approach of the Epstein case as a “political stunt”, he signalled his support for the measure over the weekend, and said he would approve it if it reaches his desk.
Response
Democrats, along with victims and their representatives who were present in a House gallery, cheered after the bill was passed. The only opposition came from a GOP representative, who stated he was concerned the measure would disclose identifying details of individuals involved, potential suspects and others implicated in the investigation.
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