Jan 13, 2026, 5:53 p.mJan 13, 2026, 5:53 p.m
Bill Clinton next to Jeffrey Epstein – a picture that was published in the so-called “Epstein Files” by the US Department of Justice. Image: justice.gov
Former US President Bill Clinton and his wife Hillary Clinton have refused to testify in the US Congress on the investigation into the case of sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. According to US media, in a joint letter to Republican Representative James R. Comer, Chairman of the Oversight Committee in the US House of Representatives, they declared the subpoenas legally ineffective and announced resistance.
In their letter, the Clintons declared that now was the time for them to fight – “regardless of the consequences.” They accused Comer of conducting a politically motivated trial that was “literally designed to end in our imprisonment.” They are convinced that “any reasonable person” will recognize that it is about punishing political opponents and protecting allies.
The Epstein case
For years, multimillionaire Epstein from New York ran an abuse ring that victimized dozens of young women and minors. He is said to have abused minors himself over several years in New York and Florida. In 2019, Epstein died in prison at the age of 66, before any further sentencing could have taken place.
The financier had excellent contacts in high society, which led to numerous speculations about the scope of the scandal. The question arose again and again as to which prominent figures might have been involved in Epstein’s machinations. A month ago, the law finally ordered the publication of the files, which US President Donald Trump had long resisted.
Trump focused attention on the Clintons
Since then, Trump has repeatedly tried to draw attention to Bill Clinton. Among other things, he stated that he was on one of Epstein’s private islands. A Clinton spokesman had repeatedly criticized the focus on the Clintons. There are two groups of people, Angel Urena wrote on X in December. A first group that knew nothing and broke off relations with Epstein before his criminal actions came to light. And a second group that continued their relationship with him afterwards. “We belong to the first group.”
Comer had threatened the Clintons with contempt of Congress charges if they did not appear for questioning. The two pointed out that they had already submitted affidavits and stated that they had no relevant knowledge. Their lawyers argue the subpoenas serve no legitimate legislative purpose and violate constitutional limits on congressional investigations. (sda/dpa)