NEW YORK — February 27, 2026
Former U.S. Secretary of State Hillary Clinton testified before a House committee in New York, stating she had no knowledge of the criminal activities of financier Jeffrey Epstein or his associate Ghislaine Maxwell.
Clinton told lawmakers she does not recall ever meeting Epstein and was unaware of the crimes for which he was later charged.
The closed-door testimony took place in Chappaqua, New York — the community where the Clinton family resides — as part of a two-day proceeding. Former President Bill Clinton is also expected to be questioned. It marks the first time a former U.S. president has been asked to testify before Congress in such a context.
What Was the Epstein Case?
Jeffrey Epstein, a wealthy financier, faced federal charges for the alleged sexual exploitation of underage girls. In 2019, he was found dead in a New York jail cell while awaiting trial. Authorities ruled his death a suicide.
Epstein had previously pleaded guilty in 2008 in Florida to charges related to soliciting a minor for prostitution but avoided more severe federal prosecution at that time. Lawmakers are now examining why stricter federal action was not pursued earlier.
Maxwell was later convicted on charges connected to recruiting and grooming minors for Epstein.
Why Are the Clintons Being Questioned?
Republican leaders, including James Comer, chairman of the House Oversight Committee, called for testimony from the Clintons and warned of potential criminal contempt proceedings if they did not cooperate.
Documents and photographs previously surfaced showing Bill Clinton in proximity to Epstein. However, no criminal wrongdoing has been established against him.
Hillary Clinton stated during testimony that her husband had participated in certain charitable trips where Epstein was present. She added that while she may have encountered Maxwell at events associated with the Clinton Foundation, she does not recall meeting Epstein personally.
Donald Trump’s Name Also Surfaces
President Donald Trump released certain case files related to Epstein last year. Some Democratic lawmakers have argued that Trump should also testify before Congress.
Representative Robert Garcia of California said that if a former president can testify, the current president should also be subject to questioning. However, the committee chairman stated that summoning a sitting president under similar circumstances would not be appropriate.
Political Tensions Intensify
The Epstein case has evolved from a criminal matter into a politically charged issue, with both Republicans and Democrats accusing each other of selective scrutiny.
Several Democratic lawmakers have emphasized that no influential individual should be shielded from accountability and that justice for victims must remain the priority.
In her statement, Hillary Clinton said she was “deeply disturbed” by Epstein’s crimes and reaffirmed her longstanding commitment to combating human trafficking.
