CHAPPAQUA, N.Y. — Former President Bill Clinton delivered a strong public opening statement Friday as he testified under oath in a rare congressional deposition examining his past interactions with financier Jeffrey Epstein. The Republican-led House Oversight Committee convened the historic session behind closed doors, marking the first time a former U.S. commander in chief has been subpoenaed to sit for congressional questioning.
Clinton used his prepared remarks to deny any awareness of Epstein’s criminal activities and insisted his limited association with the disgraced financier ended long before Epstein’s 2008 conviction. He also objected to the decision to compel his wife, Hillary Clinton, to testify in the investigation despite her lack of documented involvement.
Firm Denials and Personal Defense
In his opening statement, Clinton repeatedly said, “I saw nothing, and I did nothing wrong,” emphasizing that he never witnessed any criminal conduct by Epstein during their interactions. He acknowledged that many of the events under scrutiny took place over two decades ago, and cautioned lawmakers that he would often say “I do not recall” in response to questions about specific details.
Clinton also spoke candidly about his upbringing and personal values, stressing that he would have acted differently if he had any indication of impropriety. He asserted that he ended contact with Epstein well before the financier’s criminality came to light and that he has no evidence of wrongdoing.
Criticism of Committee and Wife’s Subpoena
A central part of Clinton’s statement was his criticism of the panel’s decision to depose Hillary Clinton, who testified the day before her husband. The former president called it unfair and unnecessary, asserting that she had no connection to Epstein and “nothing to do with” his activities.
Republican leaders on the committee have defended the depositions as essential to understanding how Epstein cultivated relationships with influential figures, while Democrats have decried the probe as politically motivated. The disagreement underscores how the inquiry has become entangled with broader partisan tensions.
What Happens Next
Though this week’s depositions were conducted privately, the Committee has signaled its intent to release the testimony publicly. The panel is expected to continue questioning other individuals connected to Epstein, and some lawmakers are pushing for additional high-profile figures to be called before the committee.
Clinton’s appearance, which lasted several hours, set a precedent in U.S. political history and intensified debate over the former president’s past associations. Supporters say the testimony clears up lingering questions; critics argue it raises new ones about accountability and transparency.
