House Oversight Committee Unveils Controversial Trump-Epstein Letter
The House Oversight Committee on Monday released a controversial letter that U.S. President Donald Trump allegedly sent to Jeffrey Epstein in 2003, intensifying scrutiny of Trump’s long friendship with the late financier.
The typewritten note, inserted into the sketched outline of a nude woman, was among dozens of birthday messages compiled by Epstein’s associate Ghislaine Maxwell into a book for his 50th birthday.
Trump’s alleged message takes the form of a dialogue: “We have certain things in common,” says Donald. “Yes, we do, come to think of it,” replies Jeffrey. “Enigmas never age, have you noticed that?” asks Donald. “As a matter of fact, it was clear to me the last time I saw you,” Jeffrey responds. The note concludes: “A pal is a wonderful thing. Happy Birthday — and may every day be another wonderful secret.” Trump’s signature appears in place of pubic hair on the nude sketch.
Another letter in the book references Trump with a photo of Epstein holding an oversized $22,500 check. “Jeffrey showing early talents with money + women! Sells ‘fully depreciated’ [redacted name] to Donald Trump,” the note reads. The signature on the check says “DJ Trump” but differs from Trump’s usual handwriting.
The Wall Street Journal first reported on the birthday book in July, prompting Trump, 79, to file a $10 billion defamation suit. Democrats on the panel published Trump’s letter before the full book’s release, leading Republican chairman James Comer to accuse them of “cherry-picking documents and politicising information.”
The White House dismissed the letter as fake. “It’s very clear President Donald Trump did not draw this picture and he did not sign it,” Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt said. “President Trump’s legal team will continue to aggressively pursue litigation.”
The panel has also subpoenaed Epstein’s estate for additional records, while Trump’s critics press for full disclosure of all related legal files. Epstein died in a New York jail cell in 2019 while awaiting trial on sex trafficking charges.
