Congress Approves Bill to Release Epstein Files
The upper chamber of Congress on this Tuesday passed without delay to a bill that will force the release of case documents related to the deceased sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, following a almost unanimous vote in the House of Representatives and a reversal by the president and his GOP allies. The White House relented after an extended period of trying to block the cross-party initiative involving a controversy that has followed 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 avoids a recorded vote, expediting the process. Just before, the House passed by a huge margin the bill on a 427-1 tally.
Citizens have been patient long enough. Those affected have waited long enough,” the top Senate Democrat stated in a Senate remarks on Tuesday, before asking the Senate to adopt it by consent. “Let the truth come out. Allow openness to prevail.”
Presidential Signature
The measure next heads to Trump for his approval. Trump signaled on the previous day that he would endorse the legislation.
Even though the president has for months downplayed the uproar over the authorities' approach of the Epstein case as a “Democrat hoax”, he signalled his support for the legislation over the weekend, and announced he would give his assent if it is presented to him.
Response
Democrats, along with victims and their supporters who were watching from a viewing area, broke into applause after the bill was enacted. Lone dissent came from Clay Higgins, who said he worried the measure would reveal personal information of individuals involved, potential suspects and others caught up in the investigation.
Other Headlines
- The president faces criticism for calling a female Bloomberg reporter as ‘piggy’ during a disagreement onboard Air Force One.
- Judge blocks ‘discriminatory’ maps in the state of Texas that gave GOP extra districts.
- A significant number of Department of Education's authorities moved to other branches as part of administration efforts.
- Large-scale operations extend to North Carolina capital, with local officials noting ongoing activities.
