Congress Greenlights Bill to Release Epstein Files
The upper chamber of Congress on Tuesday gave swift approval to a measure that will mandate the disclosure of case documents related to the deceased pedophile Jeffrey Epstein, following a almost unanimous vote in the House of Representatives and a change of position by Donald Trump and his Republican allies. The administration changed course after an extended period of trying to delay the cross-party initiative involving a scandal that has plagued the president since his return to the White House.
Swift Passage in Both Chambers
Senators proceeded by consensus, which needs acceptance from each senator but does not require a formal roll call vote, accelerating the process. Just before, the House passed by a huge margin the bill on a 427-1 tally.
“The American people have waited long enough. The survivors have waited patiently,” Chuck Schumer declared in a floor speech on Tuesday, before asking the chamber to approve it without opposition. “Let the truth come out. Allow openness to prevail.”
Presidential Signature
This legislation next goes to Donald Trump for his endorsement. He indicated on Monday that he would endorse the legislation.
Though the president has for months dismissed the outcry over the government’s handling of the Epstein case as a “Democrat hoax”, he signalled his support for the measure over the past few days, and said he would sign the measure if it comes to him.
Reaction
The Democratic party, along with survivors of Epstein and their advocates who were watching from a House gallery, applauded after the bill was enacted. The only opposition came from Clay Higgins, who expressed concern he feared the measure would reveal identifying details of witnesses, those under scrutiny and others implicated in the investigation.
Additional Stories
- The president is under fire for referring to a journalist as ‘piggy’ during a clash aboard Air Force One.
- Federal judge disallows ‘discriminatory’ maps in Texas that awarded Republicans extra districts.
- A significant number of US education agency’s powers transferred to other branches as part of administration efforts.
- Large-scale operations expand to North Carolina capital, with authorities noting ongoing activities.
