The House Oversight Committee is preparing to hold former President Bill Clinton and former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton in contempt after the couple declined to appear for congressional testimony regarding the Jeffrey Epstein investigation.
A committee spokeswoman confirmed that the Oversight panel is moving forward with potential contempt proceedings. “The Clintons have not confirmed their appearances for their subpoenaed depositions. They are obligated under the law to appear and we expect them to do so. If the Clintons do not appear for their depositions, the House Oversight Committee will begin contempt of Congress proceedings,” the spokeswoman said.
The subpoenas were issued following a vote by the Federal Law Enforcement Subcommittee on July 23, 2025. Both Republican and Democrat members unanimously approved the measure, authorizing subpoenas for ten individuals—including the Clintons—to provide testimony related to alleged crimes by Jeffrey Epstein and his associate Ghislaine Maxwell. The formal subpoenas were sent to the former first couple on August 5, 2025.
In response, the Clintons submitted an eight-page legal letter asserting that the subpoenas were “invalid and legally unenforceable.” The letter emphasized that both had already provided sworn statements similar to those accepted from several other former officials who were excused from testifying. They further argued that they possess no relevant knowledge regarding the committee’s investigation.
A joint statement from Bill and Hillary Clinton pledged to resist Chairman James Comer’s efforts. The couple wrote that the subpoenas appeared politically motivated and intended to “punish those who you see as your enemies and to protect those you think are your friends.” Their letter referenced various Republican-led policies, including former President Trump’s immigration initiatives, Justice Department prosecutions, and Republican opposition to extending health care subsidies, suggesting that Comer’s actions were part of a broader partisan agenda.
“Every person has to decide when they have seen or had enough and are ready to fight for this country, its principles and its people, no matter the consequences,” the Clintons wrote. “For us, now is that time.”
The House Oversight Committee has signaled that failure to comply with the subpoenas could trigger formal contempt proceedings. Chairman Comer has consistently argued that witnesses, including the Clintons, have a legal obligation to provide testimony. The committee maintains that deposition compliance is critical to the ongoing investigation into Epstein and Maxwell’s alleged crimes.
The situation has sparked debate about the scope of congressional authority and the limits of legal exemptions for former officials. Legal experts note that contempt proceedings could lead to enforcement actions, including fines or potential referral for prosecution, though such measures would likely involve additional legal challenges.
The subpoenas for testimony are part of a broader effort by the House Oversight Committee to gather information on Epstein and Maxwell’s activities, as well as any possible connections to high-profile individuals. Republicans, in particular, have emphasized transparency and accountability, while critics argue that the proceedings risk being perceived as politically motivated.
As of now, the Clintons have not scheduled appearances or indicated willingness to comply with the subpoenas. Committee officials have stated that they will proceed with contempt measures if the former president and secretary of state continue to decline participation.
The developing standoff represents one of the most high-profile congressional disputes in recent years, highlighting ongoing tensions over investigative authority, political accountability, and the intersection of law and partisan interests.