Senate Greenlights Legislation to Release Epstein Records
The Senate on this Tuesday passed without delay to a bill that will require the publication of investigative files concerning the deceased sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, following a overwhelming vote in the lower house and a reversal by the president and his Republican allies. The White House gave in after an extended period of trying to delay the joint action involving a case that has followed the president since his comeback to the White House.
Swift Passage in Congress
The Senate acted by consensus, which requires approval from each senator but avoids a recorded vote, speeding up the process. Earlier that day, the House voted decisively for the bill on a near-unanimous vote.
“The American people have endured sufficient delay. Those affected have waited patiently,” the Senate Democratic leader declared in a floor speech on Tuesday, before asking the Senate to adopt it by consent. “Uncover the facts. Let transparency reign.”
Presidential Signature
This legislation next heads to Trump for his approval. He signaled on the previous day that he would sign the measure.
Although Trump has for months rejected the outcry over the authorities' approach of the Epstein case as a “false narrative”, he expressed his backing for the measure over the past few days, and announced he would sign the measure if it comes to him.
Support and Opposition
Democrats, along with survivors of Epstein and their advocates who were present in a House gallery, broke into applause after the bill was approved. The sole “no” vote came from Clay Higgins, who expressed concern he feared the measure would make public specific data of witnesses, those under scrutiny and others caught up in the investigation.
Additional Headlines
- Trump is under fire for calling a female Bloomberg reporter as ‘piggy’ during a disagreement aboard Air Force One.
- Federal judge rejects ‘discriminatory’ maps in Texas that gave GOP extra districts.
- Many of US education agency’s responsibilities transferred to other federal departments as part of White House efforts.
- Mass federal immigration sweeps extend to the state's capital, with representatives confirming ongoing activities.
