US lawmakers release Epstein 'birthday book' with alleged Trump note

September 9, 2025

The White House has denied the authenticity of an alleged letter from Donald Trump to Jeffrey Epstein containing a drawing of a woman and a signature, which was released by US lawmakers as part of a "birthday book" given to Epstein in 2003. The book, compiled by Ghislaine Maxwell for Epstein's 50th birthday, contains messages from various high-profile individuals including Lord Peter Mandelson and allegedly Bill Clinton. The House Oversight Committee released these documents amid growing pressure for transparency regarding Epstein investigations, with Democrats claiming the release proves Trump was lying about the note's existence while Republicans accuse Democrats of politicizing the information.

Who is affected

Victims of Jeffrey Epstein
Donald Trump (former US president and current president in the article context)
Lord Peter Mandelson (UK Ambassador to the US)
Bill Clinton (former US president)
Prince Andrew
Ghislaine Maxwell (Epstein's co-conspirator)
Members of the House Oversight Committee
Individuals named in Epstein's personal address book (royalty, celebrities, models, politicians)

What action is being taken

The White House is denying the authenticity of the alleged Trump letter to Epstein
US lawmakers are releasing documents from Epstein's estate, including his "birthday book," will, and personal address book
The House Oversight Committee is conducting an investigation into Epstein's activities
Trump's legal team is pursuing litigation against the Wall Street Journal
Democrats on the committee are releasing specific documents like the alleged Trump note
Republicans on the committee are conducting what they describe as a "thorough investigation"

Why it matters

The release of these documents is significant as it relates to high-profile connections to Jeffrey Epstein, who was convicted of sex trafficking crimes. There is growing pressure from various groups, including victims, supporters, and even members of the Republican Party, for more transparency about what investigations into Epstein uncovered. The alleged Trump note is particularly controversial as it contradicts the president's previous denials and has led to a $10 billion lawsuit against the Wall Street Journal. The documents provide insight into Epstein's network of powerful connections before allegations of his sex abuse became public.

What's next

No explicit next steps stated in the article

Read full article from source: BBC