Bill Clinton admits writing note for Epstein’s 50th birthday book in deposition
WASHINGTON, DC: Former President Bill Clinton confirmed to members of the House Oversight Committee in his testimony on Friday, February 27, that he had written a note for convicted offender Jeffrey Epstein's 50th birthday book.
The closed-door deposition video was released to the public on March 2 and also included a deposition from his wife and former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton. Neither of the Clintons have been accused of wrongdoing, and both deny any knowledge of Epstein’s crimes.
Bill Clinton on the Jeffrey Epstein birthday note
When asked about the note he wrote for Epstein’s 50th birthday book, Bill said he intended to reflect his belief that Epstein was “a curious and interesting person.” He further stated, "So, I wrote a letter that I thought reflected that.”
When pressed to elaborate on what made Epstein interesting and curious, he replied, “No more than I’ve already said.” In his deposition, he also confirmed that the note bears his handwriting and signature.
The text of the letter, released previously by the Committee, read, "Jeffrey -- Happy 50th -- It’s reassuring isn’t it, to have lasted as long, across all the years of learning and knowing, adventures and [illegible], and also to have your childlike curiosity, the drive to make a difference and the solace of friends -- Bill Clinton"
Bill has denied that the letter referenced any “inappropriate activities" and explained further, “I was requested to contribute a nice letter for his birthday book. Not a bad letter.”
In connection with Epstein’s prior relationship, no survivor or associate has ever publicly alleged any wrongdoing or inappropriate behavior by the former president or his wife. In his opening statement, Bill said he had "no idea of the crimes Epstein was committing."
Bill Clinton on Trump's feud with Epstein
Clinton also addressed his knowledge of President Donald Trump’s relationship with Epstein, saying Trump told him their relationship ended over a “real estate deal.” Clinton recounted a brief conversation during a charity golf tournament in the early 2000s.
He said, "Donald Trump would come out and play a few holes with us, and he somehow knew I had flown in Jeffrey Epstein's aircraft." Bill continued, "You know, we had some great times together over the years, but we fell out all because of a real estate deal’ and he said that I'm sorry it happened. That's all."
Trump had previously stated his relationship with Epstein ended after he “stole” his employee from Mar-a-Lago, though other reporting suggested a bidding war over a Palm Beach mansion in 2004 caused the falling out.
Bill also said he had "limited knowledge of the land dispute, noting the conversation lasted only about two minutes."
When asked if Trump specifically characterized the land dispute as causing the falling out, Clinton said, “Yeah. He said they both wanted a same piece of land. He didn’t say what it was and that’s all I remember,” referring to the conversation around 2002 or 2003.
