The U.S. Department of Justice announced on Friday its intention to investigate the alleged connections of Jeffrey Epstein with former President Bill Clinton and JPMorgan, as requested by President Donald Trump. This move follows the release of documents by a congressional committee that raised concerns about Trump’s ties to Epstein. U.S. Attorney General Pam Bondi stated that Jay Clayton, the top federal prosecutor in Manhattan, will lead the investigation.
Trump has called for investigations into Larry Summers, Reid Hoffman, and others mentioned in the Epstein-related documents. He emphasized on social media that Epstein’s association was a problem for the Democratic Party. JPMorgan expressed regret for its past association with Epstein and clarified that it did not aid him in committing any illegal acts.
Clinton’s deputy chief of staff, Angel Urena, defended Clinton, stating that the emails prove Clinton’s innocence. Hoffman, in a statement, called for the release of all Epstein files to dispel baseless accusations against him. Summers did not respond to requests for comment.
Despite previous statements from the Department of Justice and the FBI, which found no evidence to warrant investigating uncharged third parties in the Epstein case, the Justice Department agreed to Trump’s demand. Trump has denied knowledge of Epstein’s wrongdoings, but some supporters have accused his administration of a cover-up.
The House of Representatives is expected to vote on legislation requiring the release of all Epstein-related material held by the Justice Department. Trump’s approval would be needed for the Justice Department to comply with the legislation. A Reuters/Ipsos poll showed that only four in 10 Republicans approved of Trump’s handling of the Epstein case.
Epstein had connections with various prominent figures, including Prince Andrew, who was stripped of his royal title due to his association with Epstein. Trump has used the Justice Department to target political opponents, raising concerns about the appropriateness of such actions. Clayton, who will lead the investigation, is a political independent who previously chaired the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission.
JPMorgan paid $290 million to Epstein’s victims in 2023 to settle accusations of negligence regarding Epstein’s activities. There is no credible evidence implicating Clinton, Summers, or Hoffman in Epstein’s illegal activities. All three have denied any wrongdoing and expressed regrets over their past relationships with Epstein.