Ghislaine Maxwell, the convicted associate of Jeffrey Epstein, appeared by video from the federal prison camp in Texas for a closed‑door deposition before the House Oversight Committee on Monday and repeatedly invoked her Fifth Amendment right to silence, declining to answer any questions.
Why the deposition matters
Committee Chairman Rep. James Comer had called the deposition in an effort to understand how Epstein, a well‑connected financier, was able to sexually abuse underage girls for years. Lawmakers are probing anyone who may have facilitated Epstein’s crimes, including former President Donald Trump and former President Bill Clinton, whose connections to Epstein have been documented but not credibly accused of wrongdoing.
Maxwell’s clemency request
During the session, Maxwell’s attorney David Oscar Markus told the panel that she “is prepared to speak fully and honestly if granted clemency by President Trump.” He added that both Trump and Clinton “are innocent of any wrongdoing,” and that only Maxwell could explain the full story.
Political reactions
Democrats called the request “a brazen effort” to secure a pardon, with Rep. Melanie Stansbury saying “it’s very clear she’s campaigning for clemency.” The White House noted that President Trump had previously said a pardon was not on his radar. Some Republicans echoed the criticism; Rep. Anna Paulina Luna wrote, “NO CLEMENCY. You comply or face punishment.”
Ongoing legal battles
Maxwell continues to pursue overturning her 20‑year sex‑trafficking sentence. The Supreme Court rejected her appeal last year, and in December she asked a Novel York federal judge to consider “substantial new evidence” that her trial was compromised by constitutional violations.
Review of the Epstein files
Lawmakers spent Monday in a Justice Department reading room examining unredacted versions of the more than 3 million documents released under a 2025 law. Rep. Jamie Raskin warned that even a full‑time effort would accept months. The committee plans a Wednesday hearing with Attorney General Pam Bondi to question the department’s handling of the files, including the accidental release of nude photos of victims.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why did Maxwell invoke the Fifth Amendment?
She cited the risk of self‑incrimination, stating “my Fifth Amendment right to silence,” and her attorneys warned that answering could expose her to criminal liability.
What is the House Oversight Committee investigating?
The committee is seeking to uncover how Jeffrey Epstein was able to sexually abuse underage girls, focusing on his network of associates, including Maxwell, and any possible involvement by prominent public figures.
What is the status of the Epstein files?
More than 3 million documents have been released, but many remain redacted. Lawmakers are reviewing unredacted versions in a Justice Department reading room and plan to question Attorney General Pam Bondi about the department’s handling of the materials.
What do you experience the next steps should be for Congress as it navigates the balance between legal protections and the public’s demand for accountability?
