Key Facts
• On July 28, Trump denied ties to Jeffrey Epstein’s alleged crimes.
• Trump refuted claims of drawing a nude woman for Epstein’s birthday in 2003.
• He emphasized never visiting Epstein’s private Caribbean island.
• Trump stated he severed ties with Epstein after an “inappropriate” incident.
• The relationship between Trump and Epstein dates back to the 1980s.
• Trump described DOJ and FBI memos on Epstein as “fabricated chaos.”
• He claimed Democrats would have exposed incriminating evidence if it existed.
• Trump reiterated he is not an artist and does not draw women.
• The Wall Street Journal’s report prompted Trump’s longest response on the matter.
• Trump labeled Epstein “persona non grata” after a staff-related dispute.
Summary
Former U.S. President Donald Trump addressed his past association with Jeffrey Epstein, a financier accused of sex crimes who died in custody. Speaking on July 28, Trump denied allegations of drawing a nude woman for Epstein’s birthday and visiting Epstein’s private island. He clarified that their relationship ended years ago due to an “inappropriate” incident involving staff. Trump dismissed recent reports and DOJ memos as baseless fabrications, asserting that Democrats would have revealed incriminating evidence if it existed. The Wall Street Journal’s claims prompted Trump’s most detailed response, where he reiterated his lack of artistic involvement and distanced himself from Epstein’s controversies.
