Trump, Congress at Odds Over Maxwell and Epstein

President Donald Trump stated he has not considered pardoning Ghislaine Maxwell, Jeffrey Epstein's former associate serving a 20-year sentence for sex trafficking, though he acknowledged he has the authority to do so. Trump repeatedly declined to discuss a potential pardon further, citing ongoing Justice Department investigations involving Maxwell. Deputy Attorney General Todd Blanche, who previously served as Trump's personal lawyer, has met with Maxwell to discuss information she might provide about others involved in Epstein's crimes, raising speculation about possible deals or political motivations. Trump distanced himself from Epstein and urged greater media scrutiny of other prominent figures linked to Epstein. Lawmakers from both parties, including Republicans, have publicly opposed a pardon for Maxwell and continue to demand more transparency and release of Epstein-related documents. The House Oversight Committee has subpoenaed Maxwell and called for further investigation into Epstein's network.