Melania Trump Denies Relationship With Jeffrey Epstein, Calls For Congressional Hearings
Key Takeaways
- Melania Trump denied any relationship or knowledge of Epstein's crimes.
- She urged Congress to hold public hearings for Epstein's victims.
- Remarks delivered from the White House marked a rare public appearance.
Melania Trump's Epstein Denial
Melania Trump issued a rare public statement from the White House categorically denying any relationship with Jeffrey Epstein.
“Melania Trump declares 'I am not Epstein's victim' The first lady's office did not reply to questions about why she spoke now”
She called the allegations lies linking me with the disgraceful Jeffrey Epstein that need to end today.
Melania said she only had casual contact with Maxwell, referencing a 2002 email signed Love, Melania.
She insisted Epstein did not introduce her to Donald Trump, saying I met my husband by chance at a New York City party in 1998.
The president told MS NOW he was not aware of the first lady's statement beforehand.
Melania called on Congress to hold public hearings for Epstein's victims.
Survivors and Skepticism
The first lady's call for a public hearing was met with skepticism from Epstein survivors.
A group of 13 survivors issued a statement accusing Melania of shifting the burden onto survivors.
They noted survivors had already shown extraordinary courage by coming forward and giving testimony.
They said the Trump Administration has still not fully complied with the Epstein Files Transparency Act.
White House Dynamics
Melania Trump's statement caught many in the White House off guard, including the president.
The White House did not share the topic in advance.
Some officials were stunned by the timing.
Sources close to her said she had been increasingly frustrated by the online chatter.
Her lawyers believed it could be helpful to have an on-the-record denial.
Contradictions and Context
The Daily Beast published recordings of Epstein bragging about his close friendship with the president and first lady.
Melania denied ever being on the Lolita Express or visiting Epstein's private island.
The email's subject line HI! indicated Melania initiated the exchange, contradicting her claim it was a reply.
An unknown sender's email after the 2016 election suggested an Epstein link in how Trump met Melania.
The first lady's statement came amid ongoing political fallout.
More on Crime
Israel Resumes Netanyahu Corruption Trial After Lifting War Emergency
16 sources compared
Pakistani Man Pleads Guilty to ISIS-Inspired Brooklyn Jewish Center Massacre Plot
12 sources compared
Man Jailed For Stealing £2.2m Fabergé Egg And Watch From Soho Pub
13 sources compared
Maui Doctor Gerhardt Konig Found Guilty Of Attempted Manslaughter In Wife Attack
27 sources compared