In brief
First Lady Melania Trump has publicly denied any connection to Jeffrey Epstein and called for congressional hearings for the survivors of his sex trafficking. Speaking at the White House, she refuted rumors linking her to Epstein and emphasized the necessity for survivors to share their stories under oath, despite mixed reactions from Epstein's survivors regarding her intervention.
In an unexpected announcement made at the White House, First Lady Melania Trump denied having any connections to Jeffrey Epstein, insisting that allegations linking her to the disgraced financier 'need to end today.'
During her statement, she urged for congressional hearings focused on the testimonies of Epstein's survivors, a move that surprised many given the lack of prior indication that she would make such remarks.
Refuting claims suggesting Epstein introduced her to Donald Trump, Melania described these assertions as 'mean-spirited attempts to defame my reputation.'
Her statement has generated a mixed response from survivors, with some, like Lisa Phillips, acknowledging the boldness of her intervention while questioning its effectiveness in helping victims.
Melania Trump clarified that she has never been a victim of Epstein, having only 'briefly crossed paths' with him in 2000, and stated, 'I have never had any knowledge of Epstein's abuse of his victims.'
Additionally, she distanced herself from Ghislaine Maxwell, Epstein's associate, and referred to her past communications with her as mere 'casual correspondence.'
Calling for an opportunity for survivors to testify under oath, Melania emphasized, 'Each and every woman should have her day to tell her story in public if she wishes.'
The statement comes amid ongoing discussions about Epstein's victims and the broader implications of his network, with some calling on lawmakers to take significant actions in presenting the testimonies of survivors.
