The Senate on this Tuesday gave swift approval to legislation that will require the publication of official records related to the deceased pedophile Jeffrey Epstein, after a overwhelming vote in the US House of Representatives and a reversal by the president and his Republican allies. Trump's team changed course after an extended period of trying to block the cross-party initiative involving a scandal that has followed the president since his comeback to the White House.
Swift Passage in Both Chambers
Senators proceeded by consensus, which needs acceptance from each senator but avoids a recorded vote, speeding up the process. Earlier that day, the House passed by a huge margin the bill on a 427-1 tally.
The public have been patient long enough. The survivors have waited patiently,” the Senate Democratic leader said in a floor speech on Tuesday, before requesting the chamber to approve it without opposition. “Uncover the facts. Let transparency reign.”
Next Steps
The bill next heads to Trump for his endorsement. He signaled on the previous day that he would approve the bill.
Though Trump has for months downplayed the outcry over the authorities' approach of the scandal as a “false narrative”, he signalled his support for the House bill over the weekend, and announced he would approve it if it is presented to him.
Response
Democrats, along with those affected and their advocates who were watching from a viewing area, applauded after the bill was enacted. Lone dissent came from a Louisiana Republican, who expressed concern he was concerned the measure would disclose identifying details of individuals involved, those under scrutiny and others caught up in the investigation.
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