Former President Donald Trump has publicly weighed in on the ongoing House Oversight Committee investigation into Jeffrey Epstein, specifically addressing the deposition of former President Bill Clinton. Speaking to reporters at the White House on Friday 27 February 2026, Trump expressed some unease with the proceedings while also making unexpected comments about Cuba's political future.
Trump's Remarks on Clinton Deposition
When questioned about his predecessor's involvement in the GOP-led probe into the deceased financier and convicted sex offender, Trump stated, "I don't like seeing him deposed, but they certainly went after me more than that." The remarks came as Clinton was simultaneously participating in a recorded and transcribed session with lawmakers in Chappaqua, New York, his adopted hometown.
Trump's comments highlight the continuing political tensions surrounding high-profile investigations, particularly those involving former presidents. The deposition forms part of a long-running congressional examination of Epstein's extensive network and activities.
Clinton's Prepared Statement
In his prepared testimony to the House Oversight Committee, Bill Clinton voiced strong objections to the committee's decision to subpoena his wife, former Secretary of State and New York Senator Hillary Clinton. According to a statement released by his office, Clinton asserted, "You made Hillary come in. She had nothing to do with Jeffrey Epstein. Nothing. She has no memory of even meeting him. She neither traveled with him nor visited any of his properties."
Clinton further emphasized, "Whether you subpoenaed 10 people or 10,000, including her, was simply not right." The former president, who served from 1993 to 2001, has never faced accusations of wrongdoing related to Epstein, though he acknowledged a social and professional relationship with the financier prior to Epstein's 2008 conviction for soliciting prostitution.
Clinton's Defense and Relationship with Epstein
During his testimony, Clinton maintained that he had "no idea of the crimes Epstein was committing" and insisted he "saw nothing and did nothing wrong" throughout their association. Epstein's 2008 plea deal allowed him to avoid federal sex trafficking charges, a controversial arrangement that has drawn renewed scrutiny through the congressional investigation.
The relationship between Clinton and Epstein dates back years before the financier's legal troubles became public, though Clinton has consistently distanced himself from Epstein's criminal activities.
Trump's Cuba Comments
In the same briefing with reporters, President Trump shifted topics to international affairs, suggesting the United States could soon witness a "friendly" government taking charge in Cuba. The remarks came as Trump prepared to depart the White House for a speech in Texas followed by a golf weekend at his Florida residence.
While Trump provided no specific details about what he meant by a "friendly takeover," the comments suggest potential shifts in U.S. foreign policy toward the Caribbean nation. The timing of these remarks alongside discussion of the Epstein investigation creates an unusual juxtaposition of domestic scandal and international speculation.
Political Context and Implications
The simultaneous occurrence of Clinton's deposition and Trump's public comments creates a complex political narrative. The Epstein investigation continues to draw attention to connections between powerful figures and the disgraced financier, while Trump's Cuba remarks introduce foreign policy considerations into the conversation.
As the House Oversight Committee continues its probe, the public statements from both former presidents highlight how high-profile investigations intersect with broader political discourse, personal relationships, and international relations.
