Melania Trump says rumours linking her to Epstein ‘need to stop’
Melania Trump says rumors linking her to Epstein ‘need to stop’
During a press event at the White House, First Lady Melania Trump refuted any link to Jeffrey Epstein, stating that claims connecting the two “must cease immediately.” Her remarks marked an unexpected shift in the conversation, as she proposed congressional hearings for survivors of Epstein’s sex trafficking network. The first lady also dismissed online narratives suggesting Epstein introduced her to Donald Trump, labeling them “malicious efforts to damage my reputation.”
Unexpected Call for Congressional Action
Though her office had not signaled this topic beforehand, Trump urged lawmakers to “grant these women the chance to speak under oath before Congress.” She emphasized that their testimonies should be recorded permanently in the official congressional archives. “Only then will the truth be revealed,” she said, highlighting her belief in transparency.
Denial of Personal Involvement
Melania Trump clarified she had no role in Epstein’s activities, asserting she was “not part of any scheme.” She described their 2000 interaction as brief, stating she had “no awareness of his victim abuse.” Additionally, she denied familiarity with Ghislaine Maxwell, Epstein’s incarcerated associate, calling a 2002 email exchange “routine correspondence” and “a courteous response.”
Context of the Email Exchange
The email, addressed to “G” (believed to be Ghislaine Maxwell), praised a photograph of “JE” featured in New York Magazine. It included remarks from Donald Trump in the same publication, who described Epstein as “a fantastic person” and “a delight to be with.” Trump also noted that Epstein “appreciates beautiful women, many of them young,” echoing the article’s phrasing.
Political Response and Public Reaction
Shortly after her comments, California Democrat Robert Garcia, a prominent member of the House Oversight Committee, endorsed her demand for a public hearing. “We concur with Melania Trump’s push for a hearing,” Garcia stated, urging Chairman James Comer to act swiftly. Her statement is expected to revive discussions about the Justice Department’s handling of Epstein’s case and the transparency of the released documents.
“Each and every woman should have her day to tell her story in public if she wishes,” said Melania Trump. “Then, and only then, we will have the truth.”
While Donald Trump admitted knowing Epstein, he later claimed the financier was removed from his Palm Beach club for being a “creep.” Despite frequent mentions in the Epstein files, there is no evidence of misconduct attributed to the president. The first lady’s intervention adds a new dimension to the ongoing scrutiny of the case.
