The White House has stated it cannot verify a reported phone call from 2006 in which former President Donald Trump allegedly praised police for their investigation into Jeffrey Epstein. During a briefing on February 9, 2026, White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt addressed the matter, indicating that officials were uncertain if such a call took place. She referred to it as something that “may or may not have happened in 2006.”
This clarification followed the release of a document summarizing an interview with the former police chief of Palm Beach, Florida. In this document, the police chief claimed that Trump had called him during the investigation into Epstein, expressing approval for the police actions by reportedly saying, “Thank goodness you’re stopping him.”
Leavitt emphasized that regardless of whether the call occurred, it aligns with Trump’s long-standing assertions that he distanced himself from Epstein years ago. She reiterated, “This call, if it did happen, corroborates exactly what President Trump has said from the beginning,” adding that Trump has consistently maintained he ended his association with Epstein decades prior.
The White House has also highlighted that Trump cooperated with authorities during investigations related to Epstein and has consistently denied any wrongdoing.
Renewed Scrutiny of Officials Tied to Epstein
The renewed focus on Epstein has drawn attention to various political and business figures, as newly released documents have surfaced that name individuals without alleging any criminal involvement. One of these figures is Howard Lutnick, the Secretary of Commerce, whose past connections to Epstein have led to calls for his resignation.
Leavitt confirmed on the same day that Trump fully supports Lutnick, despite the scrutiny he faces. When asked about the calls for Lutnick’s resignation, Leavitt stated, “Lutnick remains a very important member of President Trump’s team, and the president fully supports the secretary.” This support comes after Lutnick testified before Congress that he met with Epstein twice following Epstein’s 2008 conviction for soliciting prostitution from a minor. This contradicted Lutnick’s earlier claims that he severed ties with Epstein after 2005.
Lutnick has become a high-profile figure facing bipartisan calls for his resignation, highlighting the ongoing examination of those who had associations with Epstein.
Potential Clemency for Ghislaine Maxwell
Additionally, Leavitt addressed questions regarding the possibility of President Trump granting clemency to Ghislaine Maxwell, Epstein’s associate currently serving a federal prison sentence for her involvement in Epstein’s sex trafficking network. She noted that while Trump has not discussed this issue recently, it is “not a priority” for the administration as it focuses on various other matters.
Maxwell’s attorney has indicated that she would be willing to assist with a congressional investigation if granted clemency, adding another layer to the complex narrative surrounding Epstein’s case.
The developments surrounding Trump, Lutnick, and Maxwell reflect the ongoing implications of Epstein’s legacy, as various figures navigate their past connections to him. The White House continues to respond to inquiries while emphasizing its commitment to addressing issues that matter to the American public.