Melania Trump has firmly denied any connection to disgraced financier Jeffrey Epstein, dismissing circulating claims as false and calling for them to “end today.”
Speaking during a rare appearance at the White House, the First Lady also made an unexpected appeal for Congress to hold hearings that would allow survivors of Epstein’s abuse to testify publicly under oath.
“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.”
Denials and Clarifications
Melania Trump rejected online rumours suggesting that Epstein introduced her to Donald Trump, describing such claims as “mean-spirited attempts to defame my reputation.”
She stated that she only briefly “crossed paths” with Epstein around the year 2000 and denied any relationship with his associate Ghislaine Maxwell, who is currently imprisoned.
Addressing a resurfaced 2002 email linked to Maxwell, Melania characterised it as nothing more than casual correspondence and a polite reply, dismissing suggestions of any deeper connection.
Her remarks come amid ongoing scrutiny of individuals previously linked to Epstein, though she emphasised that mere association should not be equated with guilt.
Call for Public Testimony
In a notable shift from her defensive stance, the First Lady urged lawmakers to provide survivors with a platform to share their experiences publicly.
“Each and every woman should have her day to tell her story in public if she wishes, and then her testimony should be permanently entered into the congressional record,” she said.
She argued that only through sworn testimony and transparent proceedings could the full truth be established.
The call quickly drew political attention, with Representative Robert Garcia voicing support and urging the House Oversight Committee to organise hearings.
Reactions from Epstein survivors were divided. Some welcomed the proposal as a step toward accountability, while others questioned its practical impact.
Survivor Lisa Phillips described the move as “bold” but pressed for clarity on what tangible support the First Lady could offer beyond public statements.
Other voices, including representatives of the family of Epstein accuser Virginia Giuffre, argued that survivors have already demonstrated significant courage by coming forward.
They cautioned that additional public hearings could place unnecessary pressure on victims, particularly those bound by non-disclosure agreements or fearful of retaliation.
Renewed Legal and Public Scrutiny
Melania Trump’s statement is likely to reignite debate over Epstein-related investigations and the handling of associated files. Several high-profile individuals have faced increased scrutiny in recent months over past links to Epstein, leading to resignations and reputational fallout.
The First Lady herself has been involved in legal disputes over claims connecting her to Epstein.
In 2025, publishers and media outlets retracted unverified reports suggesting she met her husband through Epstein, while author Michael Wolff has been engaged in an ongoing legal battle with her over similar allegations in his book.
“My attorneys and I have fought these unfounded and baseless lies with success, and will continue to maintain my sound reputation without hesitation,” she said.
The remarks marked one of Melania Trump’s few public appearances since returning to the White House, underscoring both her typically low public profile and the sensitivity of the issue.
While Donald Trump has previously acknowledged knowing Epstein, he has denied any wrongdoing and said he distanced himself from him years ago.
