But sources close to her said they were less surprised at the decision, noting Melania Trump has been increasingly frustrated by the online chatter about her relationship with Epstein. But stories linking the first lady to Epstein were still circulating online, and Melania Trump wanted to go on the record with a firm denial, the official said. “First lady Melania Trump spoke out now because enough is enough. Indeed, Melania Trump herself publicly asked for Congressional action. Melania Trump also sought to downplay her relationship with Maxwell, Epstein’s associate who was convicted of sex trafficking.

Source: CNN April 09, 2026 18:53 UTC