Hillary Clinton recently criticized the Trump administration for allegedly slow-walking the release of Jeffrey Epstein files, calling it a “cover-up” during a BBC interview in Berlin. She urged full transparency while noting her limited encounters with Epstein’s associate Ghislaine Maxwell. The White House fired back, claiming they’ve released more documents than Democrats ever did and pointing to Trump’s calls for probes into Epstein’s Democratic ties.
Key Background Facts
- Epstein Files Release: In early 2026, the US Department of Justice (DoJ) publicized millions of pages under the Epstein Files Transparency Act, passed by Congress. Lawmakers like Rep. Thomas Massie (R-KY) argue it’s incomplete, demanding internal memos on charging decisions. Appearing in files doesn’t imply guilt.
- Epstein’s Death: He died by suicide in a New York jail on August 10, 2019, awaiting trial on sex trafficking charges, years after his 2008 conviction for soliciting a minor.
- Prince Andrew: Facing US pressure to testify before the House Oversight Committee over Epstein links. He denies wrongdoing and settled with accuser Virginia Giuffre (who died by suicide in 2025) without admitting liability.
Clintons’ Involvement
Bill and Hillary Clinton are scheduled to testify publicly before the Oversight Committee—Bill on February 27, Hillary on February 26. It’s the first time a former president (Bill) has done so since Gerald Ford in 1983. A contempt vote was dropped after they agreed.
- Both deny knowledge of Epstein’s crimes; Bill knew him socially but cut ties ~20 years ago.
- No accusations of wrongdoing from victims.
- They push for public hearings: “Sunlight is the best disinfectant,” Hillary said, accusing Republicans of using them as a “shiny object” to distract from Trump.
Trump and Others
- Trump appears frequently in files but denies involvement, claiming exoneration. DoJ called anti-Trump claims in docs “unfounded and false,” likely planted pre-2020 election.
- Trump told BBC: “I’ve been exonerated… Clinton and many other Democrats have been pulled in.”
This saga highlights ongoing partisan tensions over Epstein transparency, with all parties denying misconduct amid demands for more releases. For the latest developments, check official DoJ or congressional sites.
