Former President Bill Clinton urged lawmakers to hold a public hearing in the House Oversight Committee’s probe into convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. Clinton made this call through a series of posts on social media platform X on February 6, 2026. He argued that closed door sessions allowed political manipulation.
Clinton’s Demand for Open Testimony
Bill Clinton, former President, stated in his posts that he had already provided a sworn statement about what he knew regarding Epstein. “I have called for the full release of the Epstein files. I have provided a sworn statement of what I know,” Clinton wrote. Additionally he agreed to appear in person before the committee.
However Clinton criticized Republicans for insisting on private depositions. “I will not sit idly as they use me as a prop in a closed door kangaroo court by a Republican Party running scared,” he added.
He emphasized, “If they want answers, let’s stop the games & do this the right way: in a public hearing, where the American people can see for themselves what this is really about.”
Agreement to Testify
Meanwhile both Bill Clinton and Hillary Clinton, former Secretary of State, agreed to testify to avoid contempt of Congress charges. Lawyers for the Clintons reached this deal with the committee after months of negotiations. Hillary Clinton testified on February 26, 2026, and Bill Clinton followed on February 27.
Despite the agreement, the Clintons continued to advocate for public sessions. Hillary Clinton challenged committee Chairman James Comer to allow live testimony, stating it ensured fairness.
Committee’s Rejection
James Comer, Chairman of the House Oversight Committee, rejected the calls for a public hearing. Comer described the Clintons’ compliance as a complete cave to subcommittee demands. He insisted on transcribed, filmed depositions behind closed doors.
Comer argued that initial private sessions prevented spectacles and focused on fact finding. Moreover Clinton accused Comer of prioritizing politics over transparency. “But it’s still not enough for Republicans on the House Oversight Committee,” Clinton posted.
The probe examined federal handling of Epstein’s case, including alleged mismanagement. Lawmakers subpoenaed the Clintons due to their past associations with Epstein, though both denied wrongdoing.
I have called for the full release of the Epstein files. I have provided a sworn statement of what I know. And just this week, I’ve agreed to appear in person before the committee. But it’s still not enough for Republicans on the House Oversight Committee.— Bill Clinton (@BillClinton) February 6, 2026
I will not sit idly as they use me as a prop in a closed-door kangaroo court by a Republican Party running scared. If they want answers, let’s stop the games & do this the right way: in a public hearing, where the American people can see for themselves what this is really about.— Bill Clinton (@BillClinton) February 6, 2026
