Angel Urena, spokesperson for Bill and Hillary Clinton, announced on X on 2/2 that "the former president and former secretary of state will testify. They wish to set a precedent applicable to everyone." This decision came after lawmakers initiated contempt of Congress proceedings against the Clintons.

The Clintons will testify before the House Oversight Committee as part of its investigation into Epstein. The US House Oversight Committee, which serves as the primary investigative body of the House, previously stated on X that the Clintons were "seeking to avoid contempt by requesting special treatment" and were "not above the law". The committee consists of 26 Republican members and 21 Democratic members, chaired by Republican Representative James Comer.

Former President Bill Clinton (left) and his wife Hillary Clinton at President Donald Trump's inauguration in 1/2025. *AFP*

While the Clintons have not been accused of criminal conduct related to Epstein's activities, Republicans argue that their past associations are sufficient grounds for direct testimony. These connections include Bill Clinton's use of Epstein's private plane in the early 2000s. Bill Clinton has admitted to using Epstein's plane for humanitarian work related to the Clinton Foundation but maintains he never visited Epstein's private island, where the billionaire committed crimes against minors. Hillary Clinton has also stated she had "no significant interaction" with Epstein and never flew on his private jet or visited his island.

Jeffrey Epstein, born in 1953, was arrested in New York in 7/2019. He faced charges of luring dozens of minors and engaging in sexual acts with them, and could have faced 45 years in prison if convicted. Epstein denied all charges and was held at Manhattan jail, New York. While awaiting trial, Epstein died by suicide in his cell in 8/2019.

Ngoc Anh (According to AFP, CNN, Fox News)