White House Refutes Authenticity of Trump's Alleged Birthday Note to Epstein

The White House has denied that an alleged letter from Donald Trump to Jeffrey Epstein is authentic, stating that the president 'did not draw this picture, and he did not sign it.'

US lawmakers released the letter, featuring a drawing of a woman's body, as part of a 'birthday book' given to Epstein in 2003. The book is part of a trove of documents from Epstein's estate, also including his will and personal address book that names numerous high-profile individuals.

The birthday book contains messages from various contributors, including Lord Peter Mandelson, UK Ambassador to the US, who referred to Epstein as 'my best pal.'

Following the release of the note, White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt reiterated the president's legal team's commitment to pursue litigation against the Wall Street Journal, which first reported on the note.

Trump has publicly refuted the existence of the note, previously labeling it as a 'fake thing' and has taken legal action against the journalists involved in its publication.

As pressures mount from within the GOP and his supporters for more transparency regarding the Epstein investigation, Trump has oscillated on his stance concerning the public release of information.

The controversy is exacerbated by increasing calls from Epstein's victims for the release of related documents, further complicating Trump's political landscape as he runs for reelection in 2024.

The birthday book was compiled in 2003 for Epstein's 50th birthday by Ghislaine Maxwell, who was later convicted for her role in Epstein's crimes. Lawmakers are demanding full transparency about the connections detailed in the released documents, including notable politicians and personalities.

Trump's past association with Epstein has drawn scrutiny, despite his claims of falling out with the financier in the early 2000s after a series of business disputes. Epstein's legal troubles, culminating in his 2019 death while imprisoned, continue to resonate, with ongoing investigations into his extensive network.