Former President Bill Clinton has once again distanced himself from his past association with Jeffrey Epstein, the late financier whose name has become synonymous with scandal. Denying ever setting foot on Epstein’s infamous private island in the U.S. Virgin Islands, Clinton expressed regret over ever crossing paths with the disgraced figure. In his new memoir, “Citizen,” Clinton reportedly reflected on the fallout from their interactions, declaring, “I wish I had never met him,” a sentiment that appears calculated to quell lingering questions about their relationship.
Clinton acknowledged flying on Epstein’s private jet during trips related to the Clinton Foundation, claiming their conversations revolved around “politics and economics.” However, he insisted he never visited Epstein’s notorious Little St. James Island, a site often dubbed “Pedophile Island.” Clinton lamented that the association wasn’t worth the years of scrutiny it has sparked, portraying himself as an unwitting participant in Epstein’s web of high-profile connections. Yet, critics might find it hard to square this regret with the multiple documented encounters between the two men.
According to the memoir, Clinton’s encounters with Epstein included meetings at Epstein’s Manhattan mansion and a brief introduction at Clinton’s Harlem office. These interactions, Clinton explained, were tied to philanthropic efforts and the work of his charitable foundation. While these explanations attempt to paint their relationship as transactional and professional, skeptics might wonder why a seasoned politician didn’t see the potential pitfalls of associating with a figure as controversial as Epstein even before the full scope of his crimes came to light.
Court documents related to a lawsuit against Ghislaine Maxwell, Epstein’s close confidant, revealed that Clinton’s name had come up in connection with the financier’s social circle. Although there is no evidence linking Clinton to Epstein or Maxwell’s criminal activities, the deposition of Epstein accuser Johanna Sjoberg mentioned that Epstein bragged about knowing Clinton. Sjoberg noted that she was unaware of any deeper ties until a Vanity Fair article detailed a joint trip to Africa, further fueling speculation about the nature of their association.
Clinton’s memoir attempts to frame his interactions with Epstein as a regretful chapter in a post-presidential life otherwise devoted to philanthropy. However, the continued scrutiny over their relationship underscores how such associations can cast long shadows over public figures. Whether his admissions in “Citizen” will put the matter to rest remains to be seen, but for now, Clinton appears eager to close the book on this part of his legacy—though many will undoubtedly keep revisiting the footnotes.
