Ghislaine Maxwell, the former confidante of the late Jeffrey Epstein, refused to answer questions during a closed video deposition organized by the House Oversight Committee on February 8, 2026. Maxwell, who is currently serving a 20-year sentence for sex trafficking, cited her Fifth Amendment rights to decline answering queries that could incriminate her.
The committee had intended to investigate the extensive network surrounding Epstein and his alleged abuse of underage girls. Lawmakers expressed disappointment over Maxwell's silence. Chairman James Comer remarked, "It's very disappointing that Maxwell declined to participate in the deposition," particularly given the gravity of her involvement in Epstein's operations.
Maxwell's attorney, David Markus, indicated that she might be willing to testify in exchange for clemency from President Donald Trump, suggesting that she could clear Trump and former President Bill Clinton of any alleged wrongdoing regarding their connections to Epstein. Lawmakers viewed this as a strategic move for potential leniency in her sentence.
Democratic representatives echoed concerns over Maxwell's attempts to garner support for a presidential pardon, viewing her refusal to cooperate as a continuation of her efforts to protect herself amidst growing scrutiny. Rep. Suhas Subramanyam described her demeanor during the deposition as “robotic” and “unrepentant.”
Maxwell is currently seeking to have her conviction overturned, claiming constitutional violations during her trial. Her request was previously denied by the Supreme Court, but she has asked a federal court in New York to reconsider her case based on “substantial new evidence.”
The implications of Maxwell's refusal to provide answers extend beyond her individual case, as lawmakers seek to uncover the full extent of Epstein's activities and any accomplices who may have facilitated his crimes. The committee is actively pursuing depositions from other individuals linked to Epstein's circle, including prominent figures.
As the investigation progresses, the committee aims to promote accountability and justice for survivors of Epstein's abuses, despite Maxwell's continued silence. The fallout from this case continues to resonate, reflecting broader societal concerns regarding power dynamics and sexual exploitation.