Congress Passes Legislation to Release Jeffrey Epstein Records
The upper chamber of Congress on this Tuesday passed without delay to legislation that will require the publication of official records associated with the late sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, following a overwhelming vote in the House of Representatives and a reversal by Donald Trump and his GOP allies. The administration changed course after months of trying to forestall the bipartisan effort involving a controversy that has followed the president since his comeback to the White House.
Expedited Approval in Both Chambers
Senators proceeded by unanimous consent, which requires approval from each senator but does not require a individual voting process, expediting the process. Just before, the House voted decisively for the bill on a massive majority.
Citizens have endured sufficient delay. Those affected have waited long enough,” the top Senate Democrat declared in a Senate remarks on Tuesday, before urging the Senate to pass it unanimously. “Uncover the facts. Let transparency reign.”
Next Steps
The measure next heads to the president for his endorsement. He indicated on Monday that he would sign the measure.
Though the president has for months dismissed the outcry over the authorities' approach of the scandal as a “false narrative”, he signalled his support for the House bill over the weekend, and stated he would sign the measure if it comes to him.
Response
Democrats, along with victims and their representatives who were present in a House gallery, cheered after the bill was enacted. The only opposition came from a GOP representative, who stated he feared the measure would make public identifying details of individuals involved, persons of interest and others implicated in the investigation.
Other News Updates
- The president receives backlash for labeling a journalist as ‘piggy’ during a clash onboard Air Force One.
- Judge rejects ‘discriminatory’ maps in the state of Texas that gave Republicans additional districts.
- Many of US education agency’s responsibilities transferred to other branches as part of administration efforts.
- Mass federal immigration sweeps expand to the state's capital, with representatives confirming ongoing activities.
