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, including Epstein's will and personal address book, which contained contacts spanning royalty, politicians, celebrities, and models.
This 238-page book features messages and photos from many of Epstein's associates, notably including a letter resembling the signature of former US President Donald Trump, who has denied writing it.
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?
Last month, the House Oversight Committee issued a legal summons for Epstein's estate to produce various documents, leading to the release of the birthday book along with Epstein's will and contact entries from 1990 to 2019.
A statement from committee chairman James Comer criticized Democratic members for releasing selective pages, including the purported Trump note, which the White House claimed was not his signature, further accusing the Democrats of politicizing the information from the Epstein estate.
Who Wrote in the Alleged Birthday Book?
Entries from around 40 individuals were published, categorized into friends, business, and science, with names under family and girlfriends redacted. An entry purported to be from Donald Trump features a note wishing Happy Birthday and bears a somewhat suggestive illustration. The White House asserted Trump did not draw the image nor sign the note.
Additionally, a message allegedly written by former President Bill Clinton reflects on Epstein's curiosity and ambition, though Clinton's office has yet to comment.
UK ambassador to the US, Lord Peter Mandelson, also contributed, calling Epstein his best pal, while expressing regret over their connection, a sentiment echoed by various others within the book's contents.
What Are the Other Entries About?
The book includes diverse entries, from the notable to ordinary individuals, emphasizing Epstein's vast social circle. One entry discussed an unnamed woman's life-changing experiences with Epstein and the high-profile people she met thereafter. Other pages display photos of Epstein, his lavish lifestyle, and a variety of interactions over the years, underscoring his controversial legacy.
