Melania Trump Refutes Epstein Links, Calls for Congressional Hearing
Former First Lady Melania Trump has issued a public statement denying any links to Jeffrey Epstein, refuting various claims and clarifying details about her past interactions. In her statement, she also called for a congressional hearing for individuals who state they were victimized by Epstein.
Denials and Clarifications
Melania Trump released a statement addressing claims that link her to Jeffrey Epstein, characterizing these assertions as false and describing them as attempts to defame her reputation.
"She stated she was never friends with Epstein and denied having a relationship with either Epstein or Ghislaine Maxwell."
Trump acknowledged that any shared social appearances with Epstein and Donald Trump in New York City and Palm Beach were due to overlapping social circles. An email reply to Ghislaine Maxwell was characterized as casual correspondence.
Trump also denied being an Epstein victim or that Epstein introduced her to Donald Trump. She stated she met Donald Trump in 1998 at a New York City party, a detail she says is documented in her book, "MELANIA." Her first encounter with Epstein occurred in 2000 at an event she attended with Donald Trump, at which time she stated she had no knowledge of Epstein's criminal activities.
She addressed the circulation of images and statements about her and Epstein on social media, describing them as "fake" and cautioning the public about their veracity.
Legal Status and Alleged Involvement
Trump affirmed that she is not a witness, named witness, or legally accused in connection with Epstein's crimes. She stated that her name has not appeared in relevant court documents, depositions, victim statements, or FBI interviews.
She further denied any knowledge of Epstein's alleged abuse of victims, stating she was not involved in any capacity. This includes denying ever flying on Epstein's plane or visiting his private island. Trump also stated she has not been legally accused or convicted of any crime related to Epstein's activities.
Legal Actions Taken and Call for Congressional Inquiry
Trump noted that her attorneys have successfully challenged what she characterized as "unfounded and baseless lies," leading to public apologies and retractions from various entities and individuals, including The Daily Beast, James Carville, and Harper Collins UK.
In her statement, Trump called on Congress to take action, asserting that Epstein did not act alone. She noted the resignations of several male executives after the matter became politicized.
Trump specifically requested that Congress provide a public hearing for Epstein's victims, including women victimized by him. Her stated purpose for such a hearing is to allow them to testify under oath, with their testimonies permanently entered into the Congressional Record, which she believes would help uncover the truth.