Senate Greenlights Bill to Make Public Jeffrey Epstein Files
The Senate on this Tuesday quickly approved to a bill that will require the publication of case documents related to the late pedophile Jeffrey Epstein, following a near-unanimous vote in the House of Representatives and a reversal by the president and his GOP allies. Trump's team relented after an extended period of trying to delay the bipartisan effort involving a controversy that has followed the president since his comeback to the White House.
Expedited Passage in Both Chambers
Senators proceeded by unanimous consent, which requires approval from each senator but does not require a recorded vote, accelerating the process. Earlier that day, the House overwhelmingly approved the bill on a near-unanimous vote.
The public have waited long enough. Jeffrey Epstein’s victims have waited patiently,” Chuck Schumer declared in a floor speech on Tuesday, before asking the Senate to pass it unanimously. “Reveal the truth. Allow openness to prevail.”
Next Steps
The measure next heads to Trump for his approval. The president stated on the previous day that he would endorse the legislation.
Though the president has for months downplayed the controversy over the government’s handling of the scandal as a “political stunt”, he expressed his backing for the legislation over the past few days, and stated he would give his assent if it reaches his desk.
Reaction
The Democratic party, along with survivors of Epstein and their supporters who were seated in a House gallery, broke into applause after the bill was approved. Lone dissent came from Clay Higgins, who said he was concerned the measure would make public specific data of individuals involved, potential suspects and others involved in the investigation.
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