Congress Approves Legislation to Disclose Epstein Records
The upper chamber of Congress on Tuesday gave swift approval to a measure that will require the publication of case documents related to the deceased pedophile Jeffrey Epstein, after a almost unanimous vote in the lower house and a change of position by Donald Trump and his Republican allies. Trump's team changed course after an extended period of trying to block the joint action involving a case that has followed the president since his comeback to the White House.
Unanimous Approval in Both Chambers
Senators proceeded by unanimous consent, which needs acceptance from each senator but does not require a recorded vote, expediting the process. Just before, the House voted decisively for the bill on a 427-1 tally.
“The American people have endured sufficient delay. Jeffrey Epstein’s victims have waited patiently,” the Senate Democratic leader declared in a floor speech on Tuesday, before urging the chamber to adopt it by consent. “Uncover the facts. Ensure full disclosure.”
Next Steps
The measure next goes to Trump for his signature. Trump indicated on the previous day that he would sign the measure.
Though the president has for months rejected the uproar over the authorities' approach of the scandal as a “false narrative”, he signalled his support for the legislation over the weekend, and stated he would approve it if it reaches his desk.
Support and Opposition
The Democratic party, along with survivors of Epstein and their representatives who were seated in a House gallery, applauded after the bill was approved. The sole “no” vote came from a GOP representative, who stated he was concerned the measure would reveal specific data of people, persons of interest and others implicated in the investigation.
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