The White House has rejected claims that an alleged letter from Donald Trump to Jeffrey Epstein is genuine, saying the president “did not draw this picture, and he did not sign it.”
The disputed note, which features a sketch of a woman’s body, was included in a “birthday book” prepared for Epstein’s 50th birthday in 2003 by Ghislaine Maxwell, Epstein’s former partner who was later convicted of conspiring with him to traffic girls for sex. The book was among a trove of documents released by a US House committee, alongside Epstein’s will and his extensive address book, which listed prominent global figures including politicians, royalty, celebrities, and business leaders.
The scrapbook also contains a message from Lord Peter Mandelson, then UK Ambassador to the United States, who referred to Epstein as “my best pal.” In response, Mandelson’s spokesperson said the ambassador has long regretted ever being introduced to Epstein.
The documents’ release comes as pressure mounts on Trump to allow greater transparency over what government investigations uncovered about Epstein and his network. While campaigning in 2024, Trump signaled openness to declassifying information but later reversed course once in office, declaring the case closed.
Victims of Epstein’s abuse have renewed calls for the full release of the so-called “Epstein files.” The 238-page birthday book contains contributions from multiple high-profile figures, with one note allegedly from former President Bill Clinton referencing Epstein’s “childlike curiosity.” Clinton’s spokesperson confirmed the former president was acquainted with Epstein but denied any knowledge of his crimes.
Prince Andrew is also briefly mentioned in the book, with one unidentified woman claiming she met the British royal, Trump, and Clinton through Epstein. She added that she had seen “the private quarters of Buckingham Palace” and “sat on the Queen of England’s throne.” Andrew has faced allegations linked to Epstein but has consistently denied wrongdoing.
When the alleged Trump note first surfaced in reports by the Wall Street Journal in July, Trump dismissed it as “a fake thing” and filed a $10 billion lawsuit against the paper and its executives, including Rupert Murdoch. The image released this week matches earlier descriptions of the note, though Trump continues to deny authorship.
The growing revelations highlight the continuing fallout from Epstein’s legacy, as public pressure builds for accountability and clarity over his connections with world leaders and influential figures.
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