The closed-door deposition of former President Bill Clinton took an unexpected turn Friday, revealing a surprising recollection – or lack thereof – regarding Donald Trump’s potential involvement in the crimes of Jeffrey Epstein. Chairman James Comer, leading the House Oversight Committee’s investigation, shared a key exchange with reporters.
According to Comer, a question posed by the committee’s ranking Democrat, Robert Garcia, centered on whether Trump should also be compelled to testify. Clinton’s response was direct: the decision rested with the committee. But what followed was even more notable.
Clinton stated that Trump had “never said anything to me to make me think he was involved” with Epstein’s criminal activities. This assertion, Comer emphasized, was particularly striking given the intense media focus on Trump’s connection – or perceived connection – to the case.
The deposition unfolded at the Chappaqua Performing Arts Center in New York, a location the Clintons have called home since leaving the White House over two decades ago. The setting itself underscored the weight of the proceedings and the personal implications for the former President.
Democrats emerging from the session offered a contrasting narrative, suggesting Comer’s account was incomplete and inaccurate. Garcia specifically called for the full transcript to be released, arguing that a comprehensive record was essential for public understanding.
Garcia indicated Clinton had, in fact, raised additional information regarding discussions with Trump, but refrained from elaborating, citing an agreement among committee members to maintain confidentiality during the deposition. This created an immediate demand for transparency.
The investigation has become increasingly polarized, with Democrats accusing Republicans of shielding Trump, and Republicans alleging Democrats are exploiting Epstein’s crimes for political gain. Trump himself briefly acknowledged the deposition, stating he “didn’t like seeing” Clinton questioned.
Clinton’s opening statement, the only portion of his testimony currently public, included a firm denial of any knowledge of Epstein’s crimes. He asserted his clarity on what he had – and hadn’t – seen and done, maintaining his innocence despite any photographic evidence presented.
Despite the intense scrutiny, neither Trump nor Clinton have been formally implicated in any wrongdoing related to Epstein or his associate, Ghislaine Maxwell. However, the unfolding deposition and the anticipated release of the full transcript promise to fuel further debate and scrutiny.
The committee plans to release a video and transcript of both Bill and Hillary Clinton’s depositions in the coming days, potentially as early as this weekend. This release is expected to provide a more complete picture of the exchanges and the information revealed during these high-stakes proceedings.
