Senate Greenlights Legislation to Release Jeffrey Epstein Files
The Senate on this Tuesday passed without delay to a measure that will mandate the disclosure of official records related to the deceased sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, after a almost unanimous vote in the lower house and a reversal by Donald Trump and his Republican allies. Trump's team gave in after months of trying to delay the joint action involving a case that has dogged the president since his comeback to the White House.
Expedited Passage in Congress
The Senate acted by unanimous consent, which needs acceptance from each senator but does not require a recorded vote, speeding up the process. Earlier that day, the House overwhelmingly approved the bill on a near-unanimous vote.
The public have endured sufficient delay. Jeffrey Epstein’s victims have suffered long enough,” the Senate Democratic leader declared in a floor speech on Tuesday, before asking the chamber to approve it without opposition. “Reveal the truth. Allow openness to prevail.”
Next Steps
The bill next will be sent to Donald Trump for his endorsement. The president stated on Monday that he would approve the bill.
Although Trump has for months rejected the controversy over the government’s handling of the Epstein case as a “false narrative”, he signalled his support for the measure over the past few days, and stated he would sign the measure if it reaches his desk.
Response
The Democratic party, along with victims and their supporters who were watching from a House gallery, applauded after the bill was passed. Lone dissent came from a GOP representative, who said he was concerned the measure would make public personal information of witnesses, persons of interest and others caught up in the investigation.
Additional News Updates
- Trump is under fire for labeling a female Bloomberg reporter as ‘piggy’ during a confrontation aboard Air Force One.
- Judge disallows ‘racially gerrymandered’ maps in Texas that awarded Republicans additional districts.
- A significant number of Department of Education's responsibilities moved to other federal departments as part of administration efforts.
- Large-scale operations expand to North Carolina capital, with authorities noting ongoing activities.