The upper chamber of Congress on Tuesday gave swift approval to a measure that will mandate the disclosure of case documents concerning the late sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, following a overwhelming vote in the House of Representatives and a reversal by Donald Trump and his Republican allies. Trump's team changed course after months of trying to delay the joint action involving a case that has dogged the president since his return to the White House.
Expedited Approval in Congress
Senators proceeded by general agreement, which requires approval from each senator but does not require a recorded vote, accelerating the process. Earlier that day, the House overwhelmingly approved the bill on a 427-1 tally.
Citizens have waited long enough. The survivors have waited long enough,” the top Senate Democrat declared in a floor speech on Tuesday, before requesting the chamber to approve it without opposition. “Reveal the truth. Allow openness to prevail.”
Presidential Signature
The bill next will be sent to Donald Trump for his signature. Trump stated on Monday that he would endorse the legislation.
Though Trump has for months downplayed the controversy over the official management of the investigation as a “political stunt”, he expressed his backing for the measure over the past few days, and said he would sign the measure if it reaches his desk.
Support and Opposition
Democrats, along with victims and their supporters who were present in a viewing area, broke into applause after the bill was enacted. Lone dissent came from a GOP representative, who said he was concerned the measure would disclose personal information of people, persons of interest and others implicated in the investigation.
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