A note allegedly written by Donald Trump to the late Jeffrey Epstein has surfaced, prompting renewed scrutiny of their relationship. The note, which reportedly wishes Epstein a happy birthday, was released by Democrats on the U.S. House Oversight Committee. This committee is investigating the handling of criminal cases related to Epstein, a financier who faced serious allegations before his death in 2019.
The note was part of a collection compiled by Ghislaine Maxwell, Epstein's associate, for his 50th birthday. It features a sketch of a nude woman and includes a dialogue between Trump and Epstein. In the note, Trump writes, "We have certain things in common," to which Epstein replies, "Yes, we do, come to think of it." The note concludes with a birthday wish and Trump's signature, which is controversially placed in a suggestive manner.
The White House has firmly denied the note's authenticity. Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt stated, "It's very clear President Donald Trump did not draw this picture and he did not sign it." Trump has previously sued the Wall Street Journal for $10 billion, claiming he never sent the note.
Epstein, who had connections with many high-profile individuals, was found dead in his jail cell while awaiting trial for alleged sex trafficking of minors. Trump's supporters have long been interested in the Epstein case, often suggesting that a "deep state" is protecting those involved in a sex trafficking ring, particularly among Democrats and Hollywood elites.
During his presidency, Trump promised to investigate the Epstein conspiracies. However, many of his supporters expressed frustration when the FBI and Justice Department concluded that Epstein's death was a suicide and that he did not maintain a "client list."
As the investigation continues, Democrats and some Republicans are calling for the release of all legal documents related to Epstein. The Republican-controlled Oversight Committee has issued subpoenas for documents from the Justice Department and testimony from high-profile figures, including former President Bill Clinton and former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton.
Interest in the Epstein case has surged recently, despite Trump urging the public to move on from what he described as a "pretty boring" saga. In response to the ongoing controversy, the Justice Department interviewed Maxwell, who is currently serving a 20-year sentence for her role in Epstein's activities. During the interview, Maxwell stated that while Trump was friendly with Epstein, he was "never inappropriate with anybody."
Maxwell, the only associate of Epstein to be convicted in connection with his crimes, has since been transferred from a Florida prison to a minimum-security facility in Texas.