The House Oversight Committee, on Monday, released a tranche of documents obtained from Jeffrey Epstein’s estate, including a copy of a sexually suggestive drawing and note that appeared to bear US President Donald Trump’s signature.
Trump has, however, repeatedly denied creating this image.
The material, part of Epstein’s 50th birthday “book” from 2003, was provided to the panel after it subpoenaed the estate. The sketch reportedly depicts a naked woman with “Donald” written below, accompanied by a handwritten note resembling Trump’s first name, states The New York Times.
The latest release has once again reignited controversy over the handling of Epstein-related records, which Republicans in Congress have resisted full disclosure.
White House officials have, in the meantime, strongly dismissed the suggestion that Trump was responsible for the drawing.
Press secretary Karoline Leavitt, during interaction with reporters, said the president “did not draw this picture, and he did not sign it.” Trump’s deputy communications chief, Taylor Budowich, added that the signature does not match Trump’s more recent autographs.
The handwriting from Trump’s earlier correspondence reviewed by The New York Times reportedly bears similarities to the birthday book entry, particularly the style of the letters and flourishes in the name “Donald.”
The broader collection of documents released includes Epstein’s will, financial records, contacts lists, and a 2007 non-prosecution agreement. Portions of the birthday book reveal a misogynistic culture among Epstein’s circle of wealthy associates, with crude jokes, sexual innuendo, and references to his relationships with women.
The estate’s lawyers have, meanwhile, redacted names and images of women to protect potential victims and said no “client list” exists, despite widespread speculation.
Epstein, a convicted sex offender, died in prison in 2019 while awaiting trial on federal sex trafficking charges, a death ruled a suicide. His ties to prominent figures, including Trump, have fueled years of scrutiny and conspiracy theories.
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