The Senate on this Tuesday quickly approved to legislation that will require the publication of official records concerning the late sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, following a overwhelming vote in the House of Representatives and a shift by the president and his GOP allies. The White House gave in after an extended period of trying to block the bipartisan effort involving a case that has followed the president since his return to the White House.
Swift Passage in Congress
Senators proceeded by consensus, which needs acceptance from each senator but avoids a formal roll call vote, accelerating the process. Hours earlier, the House voted decisively for the bill on a massive majority.
Citizens have waited long enough. Those affected have waited patiently,” the Senate Democratic leader stated in a floor speech on Tuesday, before urging the chamber to approve it without opposition. “Uncover the facts. Allow openness to prevail.”
Presidential Signature
The measure next heads to Donald Trump for his signature. He stated on Monday that he would sign the measure.
Though the president has for an extended period dismissed the uproar over the government’s handling of the scandal as a “false narrative”, he voiced approval for the House bill over the past few days, and said he would approve it if it reaches his desk.
Support and Opposition
Opposition lawmakers, along with victims and their advocates who were present in a viewing area, broke into applause after the bill was approved. The only opposition came from Clay Higgins, who expressed concern he was concerned the measure would make public specific data of witnesses, potential suspects and others involved in the investigation.
Additional News Updates
- The president is under fire for calling a journalist as ‘piggy’ during a confrontation onboard Air Force One.
- Federal judge blocks ‘racially gerrymandered’ maps in the state of Texas that allocated GOP extra districts.
- Many of US education agency’s powers moved to other federal departments as part of White House efforts.
- Mass federal immigration sweeps expand to North Carolina capital, with authorities noting ongoing activities.
