A US congressional panel has released a redacted copy of an alleged birthday book given to Jeffrey Epstein in 2003 celebrating his fiftieth birthday. The book was released alongside a trove of documents that include the late convicted paedophile financier's will and personal address book, featuring contacts that include royalty, politicians, celebrities, and models.
The 238-page book contains messages and photos from Epstein's friends, featuring a letter that allegedly carries a signature resembling that of former President Donald Trump, who has denied writing or producing the birthday note.
Epstein, a well-connected financier and convicted sex offender, was found dead by suicide in 2019 while awaiting trial for sex trafficking.
What was released and why now?
The House Oversight Committee recently summoned the executors of Epstein's estate to produce various documents, leading to the release of the birthday book, along with his will and contact entries spanning from 1990 to 2019.
How did we get here?
Pressure for the release of the so-called Epstein files has been mounting, particularly among Trump's supporters, as they seek to uncover more information related to the former president's connections with Epstein.
What did Trump allegedly write?
The note from Trump includes a sketch and an imagined conversation between him and Epstein, concluding with the line, A pal is a wonderful thing. Happy Birthday - and may every day be another wonderful secret. The White House has denied Trump's involvement in the note's production.
Who else was named in the 'birthday book'?
The book includes entries from high-profile individuals, including former President Bill Clinton and current UK ambassador Lord Peter Mandelson. Notably, the names of family and romantic interests were redacted, raising further questions about the extent of Epstein's connections.
What are the other entries about?
The book features a wide range of content, with messages from people of diverse backgrounds and professions, reflecting Epstein's extensive social network. The introduction by Ghislaine Maxwell, alongside notes from his mother, paints a portrait of Epstein's life through the eyes of those who knew him.
What has the reaction been?
The release of the birthday book has sparked controversy, with criticism aimed at Democratic committee members for their handling of the documents. Calls for the full release of Epstein's files continue from various political figures and the public.
