Clintons agree to testify on Epstein as vote looms to hold them in contempt of Congress

February 3, 2026

Former President Bill Clinton and former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton have agreed to testify before a House Oversight Committee investigation into deceased sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, marking a significant reversal after months of resistance. The decision came just before a scheduled vote on holding the couple in criminal contempt for refusing to appear, despite their previous position that they had already provided all relevant information through sworn statements. Bill Clinton had past associations with Epstein, including traveling on his private jet in the early 2000s for Clinton Foundation work, though both Clintons deny any knowledge of Epstein's crimes and have not been accused of wrongdoing by survivors.

Who is affected

Bill and Hillary Clinton (former President and former Secretary of State)
The House Oversight Committee, led by Chairman James Comer
Republican and Democratic committee members
Jeffrey Epstein survivors (indirectly, as investigation relates to their abuser)
Angel Ureña (Bill Clinton's deputy chief of staff and spokesman)
Virginia Foxx (House Rules Committee Chairwoman)

What action is being taken

The Clintons are negotiating terms for their testimony with the House Oversight Committee
The House Oversight Committee is working to clarify what the Clintons are actually agreeing to
Lawmakers' consideration of contempt resolutions against the Clintons has been postponed
Chairman Comer is clarifying the terms and discussing next steps with committee members

Why it matters

This testimony is historically significant as it would mark the first appearance of a former US president before a congressional panel in over 40 years. The investigation seeks to uncover facts about the government's role in the Epstein case and ensure accountability, regardless of political status. The bipartisan support for the subpoenas and contempt measures demonstrates rare cross-party consensus on the need for transparency regarding connections to a high-profile sex offender. The case also tests whether prominent political figures are subject to the same legal obligations as ordinary citizens.

What's next

Chairman Comer will clarify the terms the Clintons are agreeing to and discuss next steps with committee members. The House Oversight Committee needs more time to clarify with the Clintons what they are actually agreeing to before proceeding. The depositions will take place at an undetermined future date.

Read full article from source: BBC