The upper chamber of Congress on this Tuesday quickly approved to a bill that will mandate the disclosure of investigative files concerning the late sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, after a overwhelming vote in the lower house and a change of position by the president and his Republican allies. The White House gave in after months of trying to forestall the cross-party initiative involving a scandal that has followed the president since his comeback to the White House.
Unanimous Passage in Both Chambers
The Senate acted by general agreement, which needs acceptance from each senator but does not require a individual voting process, expediting the process. Just before, the House overwhelmingly approved the bill on a 427-1 tally.
The public have been patient long enough. The survivors have suffered long enough,” the Senate Democratic leader declared in a Senate remarks on Tuesday, before requesting the Senate to adopt it by consent. “Uncover the facts. Ensure full disclosure.”
Presidential Signature
This legislation next will be sent to Trump for his signature. He signaled on Monday that he would sign the measure.
Even though Trump has for months dismissed the controversy over the official management of the scandal as a “Democrat hoax”, he signalled his support for the legislation over the past few days, and stated he would give his assent if it comes to him.
Reaction
Democrats, along with victims and their representatives who were watching from a House gallery, broke into applause after the bill was enacted. The only opposition came from a GOP representative, who expressed concern he was concerned the measure would reveal personal information of witnesses, potential suspects and others implicated in the investigation.
Other News Updates
- The president is under fire for referring to a female Bloomberg reporter as ‘piggy’ during a clash onboard Air Force One.
- Federal judge rejects ‘racially gerrymandered’ maps in Texas that gave Republicans additional districts.
- Many of US education agency’s authorities reassigned to different agencies as part of administration efforts.
- Raids expand to Raleigh, with authorities confirming ongoing activities.
