US Senate unanimously clears Jeffrey Epstein Files bill

Annie Farmer, a victim of Jeffrey Epstein, speaks from the podium during a vigil to honour survivors of his crimes, on Tuesday. Pic/AFP

The US Senate on Tuesday (Wednesday India time) unanimously agreed to pass the bipartisan, House-backed bill requiring the Department of Justice to make the Epstein Files public. With the Senate's approval, no further action is needed in the chamber. The bill will now be sent directly to President Donald Trump for his signature to become law.

Earlier on Tuesday, the US House of Representatives passed a bipartisan bill requiring the US Department of Justice to release all case files related to convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. The measure passed with overwhelming support, winning a 427-1 vote. Only Republican Clay Higgins voted against it.

The legislation, which has garnered support from both Republican and Democratic lawmakers, seeks to provide full transparency for public and justice for Epstein's abuse survivors.

Trump has also expressed his support for the bill, urging House Republicans to back it. In a rare reversal, Trump publicly called on Congress to pass the measure, pledging to sign it into law if it reached his desk. Meanwhile, Democratic Rep Robert Garcia criticised the Trump administration for failing to release the files earlier. Garcia pointed out that the president has the authority to release the documents immediately, without congressional approval.

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