Congress Passes Legislation to Disclose Epstein Documents
The upper chamber of Congress on Tuesday quickly approved to a bill that will force the release of investigative files concerning the late sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, after a overwhelming vote in the House of Representatives and a shift by the president and his GOP allies. Trump's team changed course after months of trying to delay the joint action involving a scandal that has dogged the president since his return to the White House.
Expedited Approval in Both Chambers
The Senate acted by unanimous consent, which requires approval from each senator but avoids a recorded vote, accelerating the process. Just before, the House overwhelmingly approved the bill on a massive majority.
The public have endured sufficient delay. The survivors have waited patiently,” Chuck Schumer said in a floor speech on Tuesday, before asking the Senate to adopt it by consent. “Reveal the truth. Let transparency reign.”
Presidential Signature
The bill next will be sent to Trump for his signature. The president indicated on the previous day that he would approve the bill.
Although Trump has for months dismissed the controversy over the government’s handling of the investigation as a “false narrative”, he signalled his support for the legislation over the weekend, and announced he would approve it if it reaches his desk.
Reaction
The Democratic party, along with victims and their representatives who were watching from a public section, broke into applause after the bill was approved. Lone dissent came from Clay Higgins, who stated he was concerned the measure would disclose identifying details of people, persons of interest and others caught up in the investigation.
Other Headlines
- The president is under fire for calling a journalist as ‘piggy’ during a confrontation aboard Air Force One.
- Federal judge disallows ‘discriminatory’ maps in Texas that awarded Republicans more districts.
- A significant number of US education agency’s responsibilities reassigned to other federal departments as part of White House efforts.
- Large-scale operations expand to Raleigh, with representatives reporting ongoing activities.
