The Senate on Tuesday gave swift approval to a bill that will mandate the disclosure of official records associated with the late pedophile Jeffrey Epstein, after a overwhelming vote in the lower house and a change of position by the president and his GOP allies. The White House gave in after an extended period of trying to block the cross-party initiative involving a controversy that has followed the president since his comeback to the White House.
Expedited Passage in Both Chambers
The Senate acted by unanimous consent, which needs acceptance from each senator but does not require a recorded vote, accelerating the process. Earlier that day, the House voted decisively for the bill on a massive majority.
“The American people have been patient long enough. Those affected have waited patiently,” Chuck Schumer stated in a floor speech on Tuesday, before urging the chamber to pass it unanimously. “Reveal the truth. Ensure full disclosure.”
Presidential Signature
This legislation next goes to Trump for his approval. Trump indicated on Monday that he would endorse the legislation.
Although the president has for months rejected the controversy over the authorities' approach of the scandal as a “Democrat hoax”, he voiced approval for the measure over the weekend, and announced he would give his assent if it reaches his desk.
Support and Opposition
Democrats, along with those affected and their supporters who were present in a public section, applauded after the bill was enacted. Lone dissent came from a GOP representative, who said he feared the measure would make public specific data of individuals involved, those under scrutiny and others caught up in the investigation.
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