TL/DR –
The article mentions an excerpt from a book by William Jefferson Clinton, detailing his association with financier Jeffrey Epstein, who was convicted for sex crimes. Clinton admits to having flown on Epstein’s airplane in 2002-03 to support his foundation’s work, but insists he had no idea about Epstein’s criminal activities. Clinton also emphasizes that he never visited Epstein’s island and dismisses claims suggesting otherwise, expressing regret for ever associating with Epstein.
Journey Back to The Foundation (2017-2020)
The Miami Herald reported on financier Jeffrey Epstein’s major criminal activities throughout 2018 and 2019. Epstein had earlier been convicted in 2008 for sex crimes in Florida. Rigorous journalism led to Epstein’s 2019 re-arrest for additional crimes by New York federal authorities. This uncovered links to Epstein from several high-profile figures, including me.
To clarify, Epstein invited me during 2002 and 2003 to fly on his airplane to support my foundation’s work. In return for flying me, my staff, and my Secret Service detail, Epstein wanted to discuss politics and economics. He had recently donated $10 million to Harvard for brain research and was curious. That was our conversations’ extent. I met Epstein briefly at my Harlem office and his New York house.
Although I found Epstein odd, I was oblivious to his crimes. Despite his actions affecting many, I was unaware until his first arrest in 2005, after which I ceased contact. I’ve never visited his island. In 2016, the Secret Service dispelled allegations of me being on the island without them. Despite rumors and unsealed depositions in 2024, my connection to Epstein did not exceed professional interactions. An ex-staffer knowingly spread an untrue story about me to Vanity Fair.
Looking back, using Epstein’s plane to visit my foundation’s work was not worth the ensuing inquiries. In retrospect, I wish I hadn’t met him.
Addressing A Symposium at University of Virginia
In May, I visited the University of Virginia, founded by Thomas Jefferson, to speak at a symposium about the presidency.
— William Jefferson Clinton, 11/2024
—
Read More US Political News