Congress Approves Legislation to Make Public Jeffrey Epstein Records

The Senate on this Tuesday gave swift approval to legislation that will force the release of investigative files associated with the late pedophile Jeffrey Epstein, after a near-unanimous vote in the lower house and a reversal by the president and his GOP allies. The White House gave in after months of trying to delay the joint action involving a case that has plagued the president since his return to the White House.

Unanimous Approval in Both Chambers

The Senate acted by general agreement, which requires approval from each senator but does not require a formal roll call vote, speeding up the process. Hours earlier, the House passed by a huge margin the bill on a near-unanimous vote.

Citizens have waited long enough. The survivors have waited long enough,” Chuck Schumer said in a Senate remarks on Tuesday, before asking the chamber to approve it without opposition. “Let the truth come out. Ensure full disclosure.”

Presidential Signature

The bill next goes to Donald Trump for his endorsement. Trump stated on the previous day that he would approve the bill.

Though Trump has for months downplayed the outcry over the official management of the scandal as a “false narrative”, he voiced approval for the measure over the weekend, and stated he would approve it if it comes to him.

Reaction

Opposition lawmakers, along with survivors of Epstein and their supporters who were watching from a viewing area, applauded after the bill was enacted. Lone dissent came from Clay Higgins, who stated he worried the measure would reveal specific data of witnesses, potential suspects and others involved in the investigation.

Additional News Updates

  • Trump is under fire for labeling a journalist as ‘piggy’ during a disagreement onboard Air Force One.
  • Judge blocks ‘discriminatory’ maps in the state of Texas that gave GOP extra districts.
  • Many of US education agency’s responsibilities reassigned to other federal departments as part of White House efforts.
  • Raids extend to the state's capital, with authorities reporting ongoing activities.
Andrew Harris
Andrew Harris

Award-winning journalist with over 15 years of experience covering UK politics and international affairs.