Melania Trump distances herself from Jeffrey Epstein in rare public statement
April 9, 2026 • Google News World
Here is a rewritten version of the news article in a neutral newsroom style:
Melania Trump has made a rare public statement denying close ties to Jeffrey Epstein. In her statement, she acknowledged casual connections with him and his associate Ghislaine Maxwell.
The White House released a statement from Melania Trump on Tuesday, saying that she had no knowledge of Epstein’s crimes but urged Congress to hold a hearing with his victims. The statement comes as the Justice Department continues to investigate Epstein’s death in prison.
Epstein was convicted of soliciting prostitution from underage girls and faced multiple charges of sex trafficking. He died in August while awaiting sentencing.
Melania Trump has been under scrutiny for her association with Epstein, who was a wealthy businessman and socialite. The couple met in the 1990s and were friends until his death.
In her statement, Melania Trump said that she had not known about Epstein’s crimes but acknowledged that she had some casual connections with him. She also urged Congress to hold a hearing with survivors of Epstein’s abuse.
The White House has faced criticism for its handling of the Epstein scandal, with many calling for greater transparency and accountability. The Justice Department has launched an investigation into Epstein’s death and is working to determine whether he was murdered or died by suicide.
Melania Trump’s statement comes as the country continues to grapple with the aftermath of Epstein’s crimes. Her association with him has raised questions about her judgment and her role in the White House.
The White House has declined to comment further on Melania Trump’s statement, saying only that she had made a rare public statement denying close ties to Epstein.
Source: Google News World