The upper chamber of Congress on this Tuesday passed without delay to a bill that will mandate the disclosure of official records related to the late sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, following a overwhelming vote in the lower house and a shift by the president and his GOP allies. The White House relented after an extended period of trying to block the joint action involving a controversy that has dogged the president since his return to the White House.
Expedited Approval in Both Chambers
The Senate acted by unanimous consent, which requires approval from each senator but avoids a formal roll call vote, speeding up the process. Hours earlier, the House passed by a huge margin the bill on a massive majority.
Citizens have been patient long enough. Those affected have suffered long enough,” Chuck Schumer stated in a address to the chamber on Tuesday, before requesting the chamber to approve it without opposition. “Uncover the facts. Let transparency reign.”
Presidential Signature
The measure next heads to Donald Trump for his approval. He stated on the previous day that he would sign the measure.
Though Trump has for months dismissed the controversy over the authorities' approach of the scandal as a “false narrative”, he voiced approval for the measure over the weekend, and announced he would sign the measure if it is presented to him.
Response
Democrats, along with victims and their supporters 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 make public specific data of individuals involved, persons of interest and others involved in the investigation.
Other Stories
- Trump is under fire for calling a journalist as ‘piggy’ during a disagreement onboard Air Force One.
- Federal judge rejects ‘discriminatory’ maps in the state of Texas that gave Republicans more districts.
- A significant number of Department of Education's powers moved to other federal departments as part of administration efforts.
- Raids extend to North Carolina capital, with authorities confirming ongoing activities.
