US lawmakers publish Epstein’s ‘Birthday Book’ with alleged Trump note

Highlights:

• US House Oversight Committee received Epstein’s “birthday book” from his estate under subpoena.
• The scrapbook allegedly contains a handwritten note and sketch signed “Donald J. Trump.”
• White House denies authenticity, saying Trump “did not draw or sign” the page.
• Other notes include one from Bill Clinton and a message by Lord Peter Mandelson.
• Democrats accuse Trump of lying; Republicans allege Democrats are politicizing Epstein documents.

On Monday (8), US lawmakers made public a trove of documents from the estate of convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, including a "birthday book" created for his 50th birthday in 2003. The release, prompted by a House Oversight Committee subpoena, arrives as calls intensify for more transparency in investigations related to Epstein’s associates and activities, drawing renewed attention to high-profile links from politics, business, and royalty.

Alleged Trump note: Controversy and denials

Among the documents is a note purportedly signed by then-businessman Donald Trump. The note, featured in the commemorative "First Fifty Years" scrapbook, was reportedly organized by Ghislaine Maxwell, Epstein’s longtime partner and co-conspirator. Notably, the note contains several lines and ends with: “Happy Birthday — and may every day be another wonderful secret,” surrounded by a drawing of a naked woman, with Trump’s signature beneath the illustration.

The White House quickly refuted the authenticity of the note, insisting that President Trump neither drew the illustration nor signed the document, and cited discrepancies in the signature. Trump has previously denied writing the note, called the entire episode “fake,” and filed a defamation suit against The Wall Street Journal for its earlier reportage on the letter. On Monday, White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt confirmed that Trump’s legal team would “continue to aggressively pursue litigation.”

Reaction: Political fault lines

The unveiling of the book and note has sharpened partisan divisions. Rep. Robert Garcia, the ranking Democrat on the House Oversight panel, accused Trump of lying about the existence of the note and demanded full disclosure of all related files. Republican committee chairman James Comer, in contrast, argued that Democrats were “cherry-picking documents” and politicizing selective elements of the estate’s information, urging a comprehensive and accountable investigation for victims and the public.

Wider implications and other high-profile mentions

The 238-page book contains tributes and messages from several other figures connected to Epstein. A letter attributed to former President Bill Clinton refers to Epstein’s “childlike curiosity,” though a spokesperson for Clinton has maintained the former president was only superficially acquainted and was unaware of any crimes. British Ambassador Lord Peter Mandelson called Epstein “my best pal,” but has since expressed deep regret about their association. There is also mention of Prince Andrew, with a woman recounting meetings facilitated by Epstein with Trump, Clinton, and the prince, as well as claimed visits to Buckingham Palace.

The documents further include a 2007 non-prosecution agreement between Epstein and federal prosecutors in Florida, as well as three decades of entries from Epstein’s personal address book—listing many celebrities, royals, and politicians.

Continuing investigations and the public backlash

The release of these papers—and the alleged Trump note in particular—comes as scrutiny of Epstein’s networks mounts, fueled by widespread speculation and demand for accountability. While Trump reiterates his denial and legal action continues, congressional leaders promise further investigation. Meanwhile, victims’ advocates stress the need for transparency, not just in political scandal but mainly to ensure justice for survivors.

Ghislaine Maxwell, responsible for assembling the book, is currently serving a 20-year sentence for sex trafficking charges.