Hillary Clinton appeared before the House Oversight Committee for a private deposition as part of lawmakers’ continuing inquiry into convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, a case that continues to reverberate across US political circles.
The session, held behind closed doors, briefly paused after a photograph taken inside the room surfaced on social media.
Republican Representative Lauren Boebert acknowledged sharing the image, saying it was captured before formal questioning began. The committee later resumed proceedings.
No Charges, No Formal Allegations
Clinton has not been accused of criminal wrongdoing in connection with Epstein, nor has she been charged in the investigation.
In her prepared opening statement, she reiterated that she does not recall meeting or speaking with Epstein and said she had no knowledge of his criminal activities.
She also stated that she never traveled on his aircraft or visited his properties, adding that she has nothing further to contribute beyond her previous sworn declarations.
Epstein was arrested in 2019 on federal sex trafficking charges and later died in custody. His associate, Ghislaine Maxwell, was subsequently convicted for her role in facilitating abuse. Authorities have repeatedly said that the appearance of a person’s name in investigative files does not in itself imply misconduct.
Committee’s Broader Inquiry
Republican members of the Oversight Committee say their investigation aims to uncover how Epstein cultivated relationships with influential figures and whether institutional failures allowed his activities to continue for years.
Lawmakers have indicated they are examining connections across political and social circles, not limiting their focus to any one individual. Clinton’s appearance is part of a broader series of depositions involving high-profile names.
Clinton Pushes Back
During her statement, Clinton accused the committee of engaging in partisan tactics and urged members to question individuals she believes are more central to the case.
She specifically called on the panel to seek testimony from President Donald Trump, arguing that anyone prominently referenced in the Epstein files should be questioned under oath if lawmakers are serious about establishing accountability.
Committee Republicans have rejected claims of political bias, maintaining that their inquiry is aimed at transparency.
Bill Clinton to Testify
President Bill Clinton is scheduled to appear before the committee next. He has previously acknowledged traveling on Epstein’s plane in the early 2000s for charitable initiatives but has denied any knowledge of criminal conduct. He has not been accused of wrongdoing in connection with the case.
Renewed Spotlight on a Long-Running Scandal
Though years have passed since Epstein’s death, congressional scrutiny continues to draw prominent political figures into the spotlight.
The committee is expected to release transcripts of the closed-door testimony at a later date, potentially fueling further public and political debate.
Clinton’s deposition underscores how the Epstein investigation remains a sensitive issue in Washington, with implications that extend beyond party lines.
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