Congress Approves Measure to Release Jeffrey Epstein Records
The Senate on Tuesday passed without delay to a bill that will mandate the disclosure of investigative files related to the late pedophile Jeffrey Epstein, after a overwhelming vote in the House of Representatives and a shift by the president and his Republican allies. Trump's team changed course after an extended period of trying to forestall the cross-party initiative involving a case that has followed the president since his comeback to the White House.
Unanimous Approval in Congress
Senators proceeded by general agreement, which needs acceptance from each senator but avoids a individual voting process, speeding up the process. Hours earlier, the House passed by a huge margin the bill on a massive majority.
Citizens have endured sufficient delay. Jeffrey Epstein’s victims have suffered long enough,” the top Senate Democrat declared in a floor speech on Tuesday, before urging the Senate to approve it without opposition. “Reveal the truth. Ensure full disclosure.”
Next Steps
This legislation next will be sent to the president for his approval. Trump stated on Monday that he would sign the measure.
Although the president has for an extended period downplayed the uproar over the authorities' approach of the Epstein case as a “false narrative”, he signalled his support for the measure over the weekend, and stated he would approve it if it is presented to him.
Reaction
The Democratic party, along with survivors of Epstein and their representatives who were watching from a House gallery, cheered after the bill was approved. Lone dissent came from Clay Higgins, who said he worried the measure would disclose specific data of witnesses, potential suspects and others involved in the investigation.
Additional Stories
- The president is under fire for calling a female Bloomberg reporter as ‘piggy’ during a clash aboard Air Force One.
- Federal judge disallows ‘discriminatory’ maps in Texas that awarded Republicans extra districts.
- Many of US education agency’s responsibilities moved to other federal departments as part of White House efforts.
- Raids extend to North Carolina capital, with local officials noting ongoing activities.
