Trump dismisses Epstein testimony talk, says he likes Bill Clinton

WASHINGTON, DC: President Donald Trump on Wednesday, February 4, brushed aside the possibility that he could be called to testify in the House’s investigation into Jeffrey Epstein, while expressing sympathy for former President Bill Clinton ahead of the Clintons’ scheduled depositions.

Speaking in an interview with NBC News, Trump suggested he has already endured extensive legal scrutiny and does not see a need to appear before Congress. At the same time, he said he feels bad that Bill Clinton is being targeted in the probe, adding that he has long had a cordial relationship with the former Democratic president.

Trump shrugs off prospect of testifying in Epstein probe

When asked by NBC News’ Tom Llamas whether he could be summoned to testify as part of the Epstein investigation, Trump shrugged downplayed the idea and pointed to his own legal history.

“I think they might say that, you know, but they’ve already brought me,” Trump said. “See, I’ve been brought. They had me indicted many, many times.”

Trump did not elaborate on whether he would comply with a subpoena if one were issued, but he made clear that he believes he has already faced more than enough questioning through past legal proceedings. 

Trump says he ‘likes’ Bill Clinton, feels bad for him

Despite being longtime political rivals, Trump offered sympathetic remarks toward Bill Clinton, who is scheduled to sit for a deposition later this month alongside former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton.

“It bothers me that somebody is going after Bill Clinton. See, I like Bill Clinton,” Trump said.

When asked why he feels that way, Trump added, “I liked his behavior toward me. I thought he got me. He understood me.”

The comments came as House investigators continue to pursue testimony from several high-profile figures in connection with the government’s handling of the Epstein case.

Speaker Johnson defends Trump amid testimony questions

The issue of whether Trump should be called to testify sparked a separate exchange between House Speaker Mike Johnson and CNN’s Manu Raju.

Raju asked Johnson whether the Clintons being deposed sets a precedent for Trump to appear before Congress as well.

“The president submits to press inquiries every day,” Johnson said.

When Raju noted that those interactions are not under oath, Johnson responded that Trump is “asked the questions all the time and he answers them,” adding that the Oversight Committee is doing its job and will determine next steps.

Johnson also emphasized that the congressional subpoenas must be respected and said there is a valid reason the Clintons are being questioned. 

Background on Clinton subpoenas and Epstein probe

House Oversight Committee Chairman James Comer announced that Hillary Clinton is scheduled to be interviewed on February 26, followed by Bill Clinton on February 27. The depositions will be filmed and transcribed as part of the committee’s investigation into the federal government’s handling of matters related to Epstein.

The Clintons agreed to appear after the committee initiated contempt of Congress proceedings over their earlier non-compliance. Comer said the couple “completely caved” once it became clear the House was prepared to vote on punishment.

“Republicans and Democrats on the Oversight Committee have been clear: no one is above the law — and that includes the Clintons,” Comer said in a statement, adding that the committee is seeking “transparency and accountability” for survivors.