House Oversight Chairman Threatens Contempt Proceedings Against Bill and Hillary Clinton Over Epstein Subpoenas
WASHINGTON, D.C. — Republican House Oversight Committee Chairman James Comer has announced plans to initiate contempt of Congress proceedings against former President Bill Clinton and former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton if they fail to comply with subpoenas related to the ongoing investigation into Jeffrey Epstein’s sex trafficking operation. The subpoenas, issued in early August following bipartisan approval by a House Oversight Subcommittee, demand testimony from the Clintons and other high-profile figures concerning the federal government’s handling of Epstein’s criminal case.
Comer emphasized in a statement released Friday evening that it has been more than four months since the Clintons were subpoenaed to provide depositions, yet they have repeatedly delayed and obstructed efforts to schedule their testimony. “If the Clintons fail to appear for their depositions next week or schedule a date for early January, the Oversight Committee will begin contempt of Congress proceedings to hold them accountable,” Comer said.
The subpoenas were issued as part of a broader probe into Epstein and his associate Ghislaine Maxwell’s crimes, with the Clintons originally scheduled to testify December 17-18. Comer’s office accused the Clintons of employing “dilatory tactics” to evade the committee’s inquiries, asserting that they “think they are above the law.” When contacted for comment, representatives of the Clinton Foundation referred inquiries back to Comer’s office, citing a letter they had sent to the chairman that had not received a response.
This development comes amid recent disclosures by House Oversight Democrats, who released thousands of previously unseen photographs and videos from Epstein’s private island in the U.S. Virgin Islands. These materials reportedly include images of Epstein with prominent figures such as President Donald Trump and former President Bill Clinton. The release intensifies scrutiny of the extent of Epstein’s connections to influential political figures.
The committee’s investigation has gained momentum following the Department of Justice’s recent authorization to release secret grand jury materials related to Epstein’s case, a move that could shed further light on the federal government’s handling of the scandal. The Department of Justice has played a pivotal role in overseeing the legal proceedings against Epstein and Maxwell.
Chairman Comer’s firm stance reflects growing congressional frustration over the Clintons’ noncompliance, as the committee seeks to uncover potential misconduct or cover-ups tied to Epstein’s trafficking network. The Oversight Committee’s actions underscore the legislative branch’s authority to enforce subpoenas and hold witnesses accountable, a power detailed on the official House Oversight Committee website.
Legal experts note that contempt of Congress proceedings can lead to significant consequences, including potential fines or imprisonment, although enforcement often depends on cooperation from the Department of Justice. The Congressional Research Service explains the procedural mechanisms available to Congress in such cases.
As the December 17 deadline approaches, all eyes remain on whether the Clintons will comply with the subpoenas or face formal charges of contempt, marking a critical juncture in one of the most high-profile congressional investigations in recent years.
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