Clinton Denies Epstein Knowledge in Testimony

• Hillary Clinton testified before Congress, denying knowledge of Epstein’s crimes.
• The six-hour deposition in New York followed a dispute with the House Oversight Committee.
• Democrats push for public release of the testimony & seek Donald Trump’s testimony.

Former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton testified before Congress on Thursday, asserting she possesses no information regarding the criminal activities

of Jeffrey Epstein and Ghislaine Maxwell. This marks the beginning of two days of depositions that will also include former President Bill Clinton. In her opening statement shared on social media, Clinton stated, “I had no idea about their criminal activities. I do not recall ever encountering Mr. Epstein.” The closed-door deposition lasted over six hours, during which Clinton answered all questions posed to her.

Context of the Depositions

The depositions took place in Chappaqua, New York, following a prolonged conflict between the Clintons and the Republican-controlled House Oversight Committee, which is investigating Epstein's past. Epstein died in a New York jail cell in 2019 while awaiting trial.

The demand for accountability regarding Epstein's abuse of minors has intensified on Capitol Hill, with significant political implications for the Clintons.

Political Ramifications and Testimonies

Republican lawmakers have expressed eagerness to question the Clintons, particularly Bill Clinton, who has faced scrutiny due to his past associations with Epstein. The Oversight Committee has pointed to Hillary Clinton's efforts as Secretary of State to combat sex trafficking as a justification for her testimony.

Clinton defended her record, emphasizing the importance of supporting survivors of sex trafficking and criticized the investigation led by Rep. James Comer, R-Ky., for being politically motivated.

Details of the Testimony

Clinton reiterated that while her husband had flown with Epstein for charitable purposes, she did not recall meeting Epstein directly. She acknowledged past interactions with Maxwell at events hosted by the Clinton Foundation, including their daughter Chelsea’s wedding.

Upon exiting the deposition, Clinton clarified that Maxwell attended the wedding as a guest of another individual, asserting her acquaintance with Maxwell was minimal.

Controversies and Calls for Transparency

The deposition faced interruptions, including a breach of rules when Rep. Lauren Boebert, R-Colo., shared a photo of Clinton during the proceedings. This incident prompted Democrats to call for a public record of the deposition, including a video and transcript of the events.

Rep. Robert Garcia, a leading Democrat on the Oversight panel, emphasized the need for transparency and indicated that the committee would work to release the deposition details promptly.

Bipartisan Concerns and Future Hearings

Democrats, driven by a new generation of lawmakers, have prioritized transparency regarding Epstein's actions over party loyalty to the Clintons. Garcia has also urged for former President Donald Trump to testify, asserting that Bill Clinton's testimony sets a precedent.

Comer noted the challenges of deposing Trump while he serves as president, yet Democrats continue to press for accountability regarding the handling of Epstein-related investigations.