Ghislaine Maxwell Invokes Fifth Amendment During House Deposition
In a closed-door deposition on February 9, 2026, Ghislaine Maxwell, former associate of Jeffrey Epstein, refused to answer questions from House Oversight Committee members, citing her Fifth Amendment rights. Her comments, however, hinted at a willingness to testify about her connections with President Donald Trump and former President Bill Clinton if she were granted clemency.
Why It Matters
This development underscores the ongoing investigation into Epstein’s extensive sexual abuse network and the involvement of high-profile figures. Lawmakers aim to clarify the roles of individuals connected to Epstein, particularly in light of growing scrutiny over how his abuses persisted undetected for years. Maxwell’s potential willingness to testify, contingent on changes to her imprisonment, raises ethical questions about accountability and justice.
Key Developments
- Ghislaine Maxwell invoked her Fifth Amendment rights during a deposition with the House Oversight Committee.
- She indicated a willingness to testify that neither Trump nor Clinton engaged in wrongdoing regarding Epstein, should she receive clemency from Trump.
- Democrats accused Maxwell of attempting to campaign for clemency; the White House indicated that a pardon was not being considered.
- Lawmakers have begun reviewing unredacted files related to Epstein and his network at a Justice Department office.
Full Report
Deposition Summary
During the deposition, Maxwell, dressed in a prison-issued outfit, refused to attend the hearing via video link from a Texas federal prison, repeatedly stating, "I am invoking my Fifth Amendment right to silence." Her attorney, David Oscar Markus, informed lawmakers that Maxwell is prepared to provide a full account of her experiences if she were granted clemency. This remark led to accusations from Democrats, who viewed it as a strategically timed appeal aimed at influencing Trump.
Reactions from Lawmakers
Democratic Representative Melanie Stansbury characterized Maxwell’s plea for clemency as "brazen." The White House, when asked about her appeal, referred to President Trump’s previous statements indicating that clemency was not an option being considered. Other Republicans, such as Rep. Anna Paulina Luna, publicly opposed the idea of granting her leniency, emphasizing the need for justice.
Maxwell’s Continued Legal Battle
Maxwell is currently serving a 20-year sentence for sex trafficking. Her legal team is also pursuing an appeal to overturn her conviction, citing what they describe as “substantial new evidence” suggesting constitutional violations during her trial. Despite this effort, her earlier appeal was rejected by the Supreme Court.
Legislative Inquiry into Epstein’s Network
In addition to the deposition, members of Congress are actively examining the extensive documentation released by the Justice Department, containing sensitive files about Epstein’s operations. Lawmakers, including Rep. Jamie Raskin, expressed concerns over the management of these files, especially regarding the accidental release of personal information about Epstein’s victims. There are also complaints about insufficient transparency regarding associates of Epstein who may have played roles in facilitating his crimes.
Context & Previous Events
Maxwell’s recent prison transfer followed her participation in interviews with Deputy Attorney General Todd Blanche. Rep. James Comer, the Republican chair of the Oversight Committee, has been actively pursuing depositions from former President Bill Clinton and Secretary of State Hillary Clinton, threatening them with contempt charges to ensure compliance. Following this pressure, both Clintons have agreed to provide testimony later this month. Amid these developments, scrutiny continues over the Justice Department’s handling of Epstein-related files, raising significant questions regarding accountability at the highest levels of government.
