Former U.S. President Bill Clinton has publicly distanced himself from convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein in newly released deposition videos. The recordings, spanning more than nine hours over two days last week, were made public on Monday by a U.S. House committee investigating Epstein's activities.
Clinton's Testimony on Epstein Relationship
In the videos, Clinton stated that he ended his relationship with Epstein before the financier pleaded not guilty to soliciting prostitution from an underage girl in 2008. He described their association as "cordial" but not close, emphasizing, "We were friendly, but I didn't know him well enough to say we were friends." Clinton recalled first meeting Epstein in 2002 during a flight for humanitarian work and claimed they parted ways the following year.
Questions About Interactions and Photos
Lawmakers pressed Clinton on evidence contradicting his account, including photos showing him shaking hands with Epstein at the White House during his presidency. Clinton responded that he did not recall those interactions. He also addressed a controversial photo depicting him in a pool with a redacted woman, stating it was from a charitable trip to Brunei and denying any sexual activity.
When Republicans inquired if Clinton ever discussed young women or girls with Epstein, he firmly answered, "No." The depositions, conducted under oath, aimed to address calls for justice following Epstein's death by suicide in a New York City jail in 2019 while facing sex trafficking charges.
Hillary Clinton's Deposition and Outburst
Former U.S. Secretary of State Hillary Clinton also testified, asserting she did not recall meeting Epstein at all. Her deposition took a dramatic turn when she became angered after learning a photo from the closed-door hearing had been leaked. "I am done with this. If you guys are doing that, I am done," she declared, banging her fist on the table before temporarily leaving the record.
Political Implications and Trump Connection
Clinton mentioned a brief discussion about Epstein with former President Donald Trump at a charity golf tournament over two decades ago, noting Trump never indicated involvement in improper activities. Republicans used this to argue there is no evidence of wrongdoing by Trump, while Democrats highlighted discrepancies in accounts of why Trump and Epstein had a falling out.
The release of these videos underscores ongoing scrutiny of powerful figures linked to Epstein, with lawmakers seeking accountability in a case that has implicated individuals globally. The investigation continues as public and political interest remains high.
