Hillary Clinton Testifies on Epstein, Accuses GOP of ‘Fishing Expedition’

In closed-door testimony before the House Oversight Committee on Thursday, February 26, 2026, former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton accused Republican lawmakers of conducting a politically motivated “fishing expedition” rather than pursuing legitimate inquiries into the criminal activities of the late Jeffrey Epstein. The deposition lasted over six hours.

Clinton Denies Knowledge of Epstein’s Crimes

Clinton stated she had “no idea” about Epstein’s criminal activities and characterized her involvement with Ghislaine Maxwell as a casual acquaintance. She reiterated that Maxwell attended her daughter Chelsea’s wedding as a guest of another invitee as reported by the Independent. Clinton also expressed frustration that the testimony was not public, as she had requested.

GOP Focus on Clinton Foundation and Bill Clinton’s Ties

Representative James Comer, the Republican chair of the House Oversight Committee, stated the inquiry aims to understand how Epstein raised funds and cultivated a network of wealthy and influential individuals according to USA Today. Lawmakers questioned Clinton about funds Epstein raised for the Clinton Foundation and his association with Maxwell.

Bill Clinton to Testify

Former President Bill Clinton is scheduled to testify before the committee on Friday, February 27, 2026, marking the first time a former president has been compelled to answer questions under oath by Congress as noted by USA Today. He has dismissed the investigation as “pure politics” and a “kangaroo court.”

Questions Beyond Epstein

Reports indicate that questioning during Hillary Clinton’s deposition extended beyond Epstein, including inquiries about UFOs and the debunked Pizzagate conspiracy theory according to the Independent.

Committee Justification and Document Release

The congressional inquiry follows the release of millions of pages of documents related to Epstein’s criminal investigation, with millions more remaining sealed. President Donald Trump has previously suggested the country should move on from the matter as reported by USA Today. The Justice Department released portions of the Epstein dossier following a congressional law requiring its release after resistance from Trump.

Epstein’s Death and Ongoing Investigation

Epstein died by suicide in 2019 while awaiting trial on federal charges of child sex trafficking. The House Oversight Committee has heard from several individuals, including the executors of Epstein’s estate, but has not sought testimony from all public figures named in the released documents.