Melania Trump denies Epstein ties and calls for congressional hearings for survivors
Melania Trump has denied any connection to convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, stating that claims linking her to him “need to end today,” while also calling for congressional hearings to allow survivors to testify publicly.
Speaking at the White House, the First Lady made an unexpected statement urging lawmakers to organise formal hearings for victims of Epstein’s sex trafficking network. She emphasised that survivors should have the opportunity to give sworn testimony before Congress.
Melania Trump also rejected online rumours suggesting Epstein introduced her to President Donald Trump, describing such claims as “mean-spirited attempts” to damage her reputation. She said she had only briefly crossed paths with Epstein around the year 2000 and denied any involvement in his activities.
“I have never had any knowledge of Epstein abuse of his victims,” she said. “I was never involved in any capacity. I was not a participant.”
She also denied any personal relationship with Epstein’s associate Ghislaine Maxwell, calling references to a past email exchange “casual correspondence.” However, records released in connection with the Epstein investigation include communications attributed to her and Maxwell, which have been widely scrutinised.
The First Lady’s comments come amid renewed political attention on Epstein-related investigations and ongoing debates about transparency surrounding the case. Her intervention has drawn mixed reactions from survivors and lawmakers.
Some survivors, including Lisa Phillips, described her statement as “bold,” while others questioned whether it would lead to meaningful action. Phillips urged further steps, suggesting that private testimony sessions may better protect vulnerable survivors who fear public exposure.
Lawmakers have responded quickly. Representative Robert Garcia supported the call for hearings and urged Congress to act. However, other survivors’ families warned that repeated hearings without structural change could shift responsibility away from accountability.
The controversy also revived scrutiny of past media reports and legal disputes involving claims about how the Trumps allegedly met Epstein, many of which have been retracted or challenged in court.
Melania Trump said she will continue defending her reputation through legal means, referencing ongoing defamation disputes. She did not take questions from reporters following her statement.
The Epstein case continues to generate political and legal debate in the United States, with renewed pressure on authorities to release more investigative files and clarify the extent of connections between powerful public figures and Epstein’s network.
