Trump Dismisses Alleged Birthday Note With Jeffrey Epstein as “Dead Issue” Amid Congressional Review

President Donald Trump has addressed an image of an alleged birthday note linked to convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, calling it a “dead issue” and declining to provide further comment. The image, highlighted in a recent Wall Street Journal report and released by House Oversight Committee Democrats on Monday, has stirred political debate.

In a phone interview with NBC News, Trump reiterated that he considers the matter closed. The White House previously confirmed that the birthday note was not created or signed by Trump. White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt stated on X: “It’s very clear President Trump did not draw this picture, and he did not sign it. President Trump’s legal team will continue to aggressively pursue litigation.”

The controversy follows Trump’s earlier campaign promise to release Department of Justice files on Epstein, a pledge that was reversed in July after the DOJ concluded that no further release was necessary. Congressional members have since explored ways to make the information public, even as Trump continues to deny any involvement in wrongdoing.

The House Oversight Committee released files from Epstein’s estate, including a 2003 birthday album containing handwritten and typed messages. Among these documents was a note allegedly drawn by Trump inside the outline of a woman’s body, which was first reported by the Wall Street Journal. The materials also include a letter from former President Bill Clinton, praising Epstein’s curiosity, drive, and friendships over the years.

Republicans and Democrats on the committee have sharply contrasting interpretations. Kentucky Representative James Comer, a Republican, criticized Democrats for selectively releasing documents, stating: “Oversight Committee Republicans are focused on running a thorough investigation to bring transparency and accountability for survivors of Epstein’s crimes. President Trump is not accused of any wrongdoing, and Democrats are ignoring new information.”

Meanwhile, Democratic Representative Robert Garcia emphasized accountability, saying: “No matter who you are, how powerful, wealthy, or well-connected, if you are involved in the abuse of young women and girls or implicated in any of the files we receive, you will be held accountable.”

Both parties have pledged to continue examining Epstein’s records, including his financial documents and correspondences with prosecutors, as part of the ongoing congressional review.