First lady Melania Trump said people are trying to "defame" her reputation by pushing "lies" about her and disgraced financier Jeffrey Epstein, addressing what she said are "false smears" in a statement at the White House on Thursday.
"I have never had any knowledge of Epstein's abuse of his victims," Trump said on April 9, adding that she wasn't friends with Epstein, never flew on his private plane or visited his private island.
Trump also said Epstein did not introduce her to her husband, President Donald Trump.
The first lady called for more action from Congress on Epstein, a convicted sex offender who died in prison while awaiting sex trafficking charges.
"Each and every woman should have her day to tell her story in public if she wishes," Trump said.
Congress passed legislation forcing the government to release Epstein records. The first lady said lawmakers should hold a hearing allowing Epstein victims to testify under oath.
Trump also said “Epstein was not alone,” hinting at other potential abusers. She noted that several prominent executives resigned over their relationships with Epstein.
“Of course, this doesn’t amount to guilt,” Trump said. “But we still must work openly and transparently to uncover the truth.”
