Senate Greenlights Bill to Release Epstein Records
The Senate on this Tuesday passed without delay to a bill that will require the publication of official records related to the late sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, after a overwhelming vote in the US House of Representatives and a shift by the president and his GOP allies. The administration relented after an extended period of trying to block the joint action involving a scandal that has dogged the president since his return to the White House.
Expedited Approval in Congress
Senators proceeded by consensus, which needs acceptance from each senator but avoids a formal roll call vote, accelerating the process. Just before, the House voted decisively for the bill on a near-unanimous vote.
Citizens have waited long enough. Jeffrey Epstein’s victims have waited long enough,” the top Senate Democrat said in a floor speech on Tuesday, before requesting the Senate to adopt it by consent. “Let the truth come out. Let transparency reign.”
Next Steps
The measure next will be sent to Donald Trump for his approval. Trump stated on the previous day that he would endorse the legislation.
Although the president has for an extended period downplayed the uproar over the authorities' approach of the Epstein case as a “false narrative”, he expressed his backing for the House bill over the past few days, and announced he would approve it if it comes to him.
Support and Opposition
The Democratic party, along with victims and their supporters who were present in a viewing area, applauded after the bill was passed. The sole “no” vote came from Clay Higgins, who said he was concerned the measure would disclose specific data of individuals involved, potential suspects and others caught up in the investigation.
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