The upper chamber of Congress on Tuesday quickly approved to a measure 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 reversal by the president and his Republican allies. Trump's team changed course after an extended period of trying to block the bipartisan effort involving a controversy that has plagued the president since his return to the White House.
Expedited Passage in Congress
Senators proceeded by general agreement, which requires approval from each senator but avoids a formal roll call vote, expediting the process. Just before, the House voted decisively for the bill on a massive majority.
Citizens have been patient long enough. Those affected have waited long enough,” the Senate Democratic leader said in a Senate remarks on Tuesday, before urging the chamber to adopt it by consent. “Uncover the facts. Allow openness to prevail.”
Next Steps
The measure next goes to Trump for his signature. The president signaled on the previous day that he would sign the measure.
Although the president has for months downplayed the outcry over the authorities' approach of the investigation as a “political stunt”, he signalled his support for the House bill over the weekend, and announced he would give his assent if it reaches his desk.
Support and Opposition
The Democratic party, along with those affected and their representatives who were present in a House gallery, applauded after the bill was enacted. The only opposition came from a Louisiana Republican, who said he worried the measure would reveal specific data of people, persons of interest and others caught up in the investigation.
Other News Updates
- The president faces criticism for calling a female Bloomberg reporter as ‘piggy’ during a disagreement aboard Air Force One.
- Federal judge blocks ‘discriminatory’ maps in the state of Texas that gave GOP more districts.
- A significant number of US education agency’s powers moved to other branches as part of White House efforts.
- Mass federal immigration sweeps move to the state's capital, with authorities reporting ongoing activities.
