CNN: Maxwell can clear Trump's name in Epstein probe in exchange for clemency, attorney says

MJ Lee and Annie Grayer, 9 Feb 2026
https://edition.cnn.com/politics/live-news/trump-administration-news-02-09-26

Ghislaine Maxwell, who was sentenced to prison for 20 years for conspiring with
Jeffrey Epstein to abuse minors, sent a clear message to Donald Trump on Monday
that if the president were to grant her clemency, she would clear his name of
any wrongdoing as it pertains to Epstein.

The extraordinary overture, stated by Maxwell's lawyer Monday morning during her
virtual deposition before the House Oversight Committee, ensures the Epstein
saga will continue to remain a political hotspot.

"Ms. Maxwell is prepared to speak fully and honestly if granted clemency by
President Trump," attorney David Oscar Markus said in a statement during the
deposition, which he later posted on X. "Only she can provide the complete
account. Some may not like what they hear, but the truth matters. For example,
both President Trump and President Clinton are innocent of any wrongdoing."

Markus also said that: "Ms. Maxwell alone can explain why, and the public is
entitled to that explanation."

Trump has not ruled out the possibility of offering Maxwell a pardon or
commutation.

Trump and Clinton, who appear throughout the files released by DOJ, have denied
any wrongdoing related to Epstein.

House Oversight Chair James Comer called Maxwell's decision to plead the Fifth
"very disappointing" and said lawmakers "had many questions to ask about the
crime she and Epstein committed, as well as questions about potential
co-conspiracy."

Democrats on the committee accused Maxwell of trying to buy her clemency by
refusing to testify. "We will not allow this silence to stand," Democratic
Rep. Melanie Stansbury said.

When asked if he would subpoena Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick as part of the
probe, Comer said he was going to focus on five depositions he has coming up.

The Clintons are expected to appear behind closed doors later this month for
depositions.