Congress Greenlights Legislation to Disclose Epstein Records
The upper chamber of Congress on this Tuesday passed without delay to a measure that will mandate the disclosure of case documents concerning the deceased sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, following a almost unanimous vote in the US House of Representatives and a change of position by Donald Trump and his Republican allies. The White House changed course after months of trying to forestall the cross-party initiative involving a scandal that has plagued the president since his return to the White House.
Unanimous Passage in Congress
The Senate acted by general agreement, which requires approval from each senator but avoids a recorded vote, expediting the process. Hours earlier, the House overwhelmingly approved the bill on a near-unanimous vote.
“The American people have endured sufficient delay. The survivors have suffered long enough,” the top Senate Democrat said in a floor speech on Tuesday, before requesting the chamber to adopt it by consent. “Let the truth come out. Let transparency reign.”
Presidential Signature
The bill next heads to Donald Trump for his endorsement. Trump indicated on the previous day that he would sign the measure.
Even though Trump has for months rejected the uproar over the government’s handling of the investigation as a “political stunt”, he signalled his support for the legislation over the past few days, and announced he would give his assent if it reaches his desk.
Support and Opposition
The Democratic party, along with those affected and their supporters who were present in a viewing area, applauded after the bill was passed. Lone dissent came from Clay Higgins, who stated he was concerned the measure would disclose personal information of individuals involved, persons of interest and others implicated in the investigation.
Additional News Updates
- The president faces criticism for calling a journalist as ‘piggy’ during a disagreement onboard Air Force One.
- Judge disallows ‘discriminatory’ maps in Texas that allocated GOP additional districts.
- Many of US education agency’s powers reassigned to other branches as part of White House efforts.
- Raids extend to the state's capital, with authorities reporting ongoing activities.
