The unfolding drama reached a turning point on Tuesday (Wednesday AEST) as senators approved a bill previously passed by the Republican-led House of Representatives, bypassing adjustments sought by Trump’s advisors. This outcome highlights the boundaries of the president’s influence within his party on a contentious issue that has challenged him since regaining office.

The legislation is anticipated to reach Trump’s desk by Wednesday (Thursday AEST), and he has expressed his intention to endorse it.

The spotlight on the Epstein documents has generated significant frustration both within the White House and for Trump himself. This week, the president confronted female journalists probing him about Epstein, labeling one “a terrible person” and telling another, “Quiet, quiet piggy.” His aides are dismayed by what they perceive as the Republican Party’s obsession with the matter—an issue they fear will persist regardless of which documents are disclosed.

“There’s a widespread belief, particularly among Republicans, that the federal government is withholding information about Epstein,” a senior White House official noted. “However, this is simply not the case… the president has nothing to conceal.”

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