President Donald Trump expressed disapproval toward Republican allies for compelling former President Bill Clinton to testify about his ties to Jeffrey Epstein. Speaking to reporters on the South Lawn of the White House before departing for Texas, Trump remarked, “I don’t like seeing him deposed, but they certainly went after me. I like him.”
Clinton’s Congressional Testimony
Clinton appeared before the House Oversight Committee in Chappaqua, New York, marking the first time an ex-president has been forced to testify in Congress against his will. The session focuses on Epstein’s activities and the Justice Department’s handling of the case.
During his opening remarks, Clinton defended himself vigorously, stating, “I saw nothing, and I did nothing wrong.” He criticized lawmakers for also subpoenaing his wife, Hillary Clinton, who testified the previous day and insisted she never met Epstein. “Before we start, I have to get personal. You made Hillary come in. She had nothing to do with Jeffrey Epstein. Nothing,” Clinton said. “She has no memory of even meeting him. She neither traveled with him nor visited any of his properties.”
Clinton frequently used the phrase “I don’t recall” when questioned, explaining, “You’ll often hear me say that I don’t recall. That might be unsatisfying. But I’m not going to say something I’m not sure of. This was all a long time ago.”
Epstein Files Reveal Connections
Recent Justice Department releases name both Trump and Clinton numerous times, alongside photos showing Clinton on Epstein’s private jet with his arm around a young woman, swimming with Ghislaine Maxwell, and relaxing in a hot tub with an unidentified woman. Epstein visited the Clinton White House at least 17 times from 1993 to 1995 and Clinton flew on his jet at least 27 times.
Clinton acknowledged flying on Epstein’s plane in 2002 and 2003 for Clinton Foundation philanthropy, but denied visiting Little St. James island, where victims allege abuse occurred. Maxwell confirmed in a Justice Department interview that Clinton never went there. Maxwell attended Chelsea Clinton’s 2010 wedding, years after Epstein’s 2008 guilty plea.
Reflecting on his background, Clinton noted, “As someone who grew up in a home with domestic abuse, not only would I not have flown on his plane if I had any inkling of what he was doing—I would have turned him in myself.” He added, “Even with 20/20 hindsight, I saw nothing that ever gave me pause.”
Political Backlash and Historical Context
Democrats outside the hearing called it misplaced, stating, “We’re talking to the wrong president today,” and demanded Trump testify as well. House Oversight Chairman James Comer noted Trump has addressed Epstein questions publicly.
Only a handful of ex-presidents, including Trump, have faced congressional subpoenas. Democrats argue this sets a precedent. The private deposition is recorded and expected for public release after legal review.
Clinton’s Full Opening Statement
“Good morning. Welcome to Chappaqua. I’m here today for two reasons. The first is that I love my country… [full statement as provided, rephrased neutrally but keeping direct quotes intact]. With that Mr. Chairman, fire away.”
Epstein died by suicide in 2019 while awaiting sex trafficking trial; Maxwell serves a 20-year sentence.
