House Democrats Unveil Epstein’s “Birthday Book” Featuring Alleged Trump Note

Lead: House Democrats on the House Oversight Committee publicly released Jeffrey Epstein’s 238-page “birthday book,” which includes a typewritten note and sketch purportedly signed by Donald Trump for Epstein’s 2003 50th birthday.

Nut Graf: The release-the first tranche of documents from Epstein’s estate following a subpoena-has reignited debate over Trump’s ties to the disgraced financier. Trump and White House officials have swiftly denied the note’s authenticity, while Democrats argue it underscores the need for full transparency.

Key Details

  • The committee published an image showing a sketched outline of a nude woman with a fictional exchange between “Donald” and “Jeffrey,” concluding, “Happy Birthday - and may every day be another wonderful secret,” signed “Donald J. Trump” across the figure’s waistline.
  • Republicans on the committee also released hundreds of pages, including Epstein’s will, non-prosecution agreement and address books, but they dispute the significance of the Trump entry.

White House Response

  • Deputy Chief of Staff Taylor Budowich asserted the signature does not match the president’s and touted its value for Trump’s defamation suit against The Wall Street Journal.
  • Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt reiterated that Trump “did not draw this picture, and he did not sign it,” promising ongoing litigation.

Contents of the Birthday Book

  • Compiled by Ghislaine Maxwell for Epstein’s 50th birthday, the album contains:
    • Messages from high-profile figures including former President Bill Clinton praising Epstein’s “childlike curiosity” and drive to make a difference.
    • Photographs and redacted images of women in various states of undress, accompanied by handwritten notes.
    • Notes from associates, friends and former girlfriends, some containing cryptic sketches and lewd references.

Political Fallout

  • Democratic members argue the entry contradicts Trump’s repeated denials and underscores victims’ calls for fuller disclosure of Epstein materials.
  • GOP leaders, including Speaker Mike Johnson and Chairman James Comer, dismiss the significance of the alleged note and accuse Democrats of politicizing the release.

What’s Next

The Oversight Committee has signaled plans to review additional documents from Epstein’s estate, with both parties eyeing further releases amid ongoing investigations into Epstein’s criminal case and associated handling by justice officials.