In brief
Former President Bill Clinton and former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton have stated they will not comply with a congressional subpoena related to the House committee's investigation of Jeffrey Epstein. The Clintons describe the inquiry as 'legally invalid' and have accused committee chair James Comer of selectively enforcing subpoenas. Comer intends to pursue contempt of Congress actions against the Clintons, despite their assertion that no wrongdoing has been alleged against them.
WASHINGTON — Former President Bill Clinton and former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton announced that they will refuse to comply with a congressional subpoena to provide testimony in a House committee's investigation of Jeffrey Epstein.
In a letter circulated on social media, the Clintons criticized the House Oversight probe as 'legally invalid.' They claim the inquiry led by Republican Rep. James Comer is a politically motivated process meant to push them towards imprisonment.
'We will forcefully defend ourselves,' the Clintons expressed, highlighting that while other officials are allowed to submit written statements, they are being subjected to selective enforcement of subpoenas.
Comer has signaled plans to initiate contempt of Congress proceedings against the Clintons next week. He stressed that no allegations of wrongdoing have been made against them, simply that questions need to be answered.
Notably, Clinton's relationship with Epstein has drawn scrutiny, with Republicans emphasizing their friendship as part of the broader demand for accountability regarding Epstein's past actions. Epstein was arrested in 2019 on federal sex trafficking and conspiracy charges and died in jail while awaiting trial.
'We have tried to give you the little information we have. Mr. Epstein's crimes were horrific,' the Clintons added in their defense.
Past presidents have voluntarily testified before Congress, but none have been compelled under legal precedent, a point raised in relation to former President Donald Trump's 2022 subpoena which was ultimately withdrawn.
