Senate Passes Bill to Release Jeffrey Epstein Files
The Senate on Tuesday gave swift approval to a bill that will force the release of investigative files concerning the late pedophile Jeffrey Epstein, following a almost unanimous 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 delay the cross-party initiative involving a controversy that has dogged the president since his comeback to the White House.
Unanimous Approval in Both Chambers
Senators proceeded by general agreement, which needs acceptance from each senator but does not require a recorded vote, speeding up the process. Hours earlier, the House overwhelmingly approved the bill on a near-unanimous vote.
The public have waited long enough. Those affected have waited long enough,” the top Senate Democrat declared in a Senate remarks on Tuesday, before asking the Senate to pass it unanimously. “Reveal the truth. Ensure full disclosure.”
Next Steps
The bill next goes to Donald Trump for his endorsement. Trump signaled on Monday that he would approve the bill.
Even though Trump has for months downplayed the uproar over the authorities' approach of the investigation as a “false narrative”, he voiced approval for the House bill over the past few days, and said he would give his assent if it reaches his desk.
Support and Opposition
Democrats, along with survivors of Epstein and their representatives who were watching from a viewing area, cheered after the bill was enacted. The sole “no” vote came from Clay Higgins, who said he feared the measure would reveal identifying details of individuals involved, those under scrutiny and others caught up in the investigation.
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