Calls for transparency highlight ongoing friction with House Oversight Committee.
Hillary Clinton has publicly requested that her upcoming testimony regarding the Jeffrey Epstein investigation be conducted in an open session. This demand signals continued tension between her team and the House Oversight Committee, which has subpoenaed both the former Secretary of State and her husband, former President Bill Clinton. The committee chair, James Comer, has insisted on private depositions, though he has agreed to have them video-taped and transcribed. The disagreement over the format of the testimony underscores deeper friction surrounding the investigation.
Background of the Investigation
The House Oversight Committee has been examining the Jeffrey Epstein case, which involves allegations of sex trafficking and abuse. As part of this inquiry, the committee subpoenaed Hillary Clinton and Bill Clinton in August. The terms and nature of their testimony have become a point of contention.
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August: Subpoenas issued to Hillary Clinton and Bill Clinton.
February 5, 2026: Hillary Clinton publicly calls for a public hearing for her testimony.
Late February 2026: Depositions are scheduled to take place.
Clash Over Testimony Format
The core of the current dispute centers on whether the Clintons' testimony will be public or private.
"You love to talk about transparency. There's nothing more transparent than a public hearing, cameras on." - Hillary Clinton (via social media)
James Comer has stated his preference for private depositions, citing concerns about protecting sensitive information. However, he has agreed to record these private sessions.
Hillary Clinton's Stance: Advocates for a public hearing with cameras to ensure maximum transparency.
James Comer's Stance: Favors private depositions but will allow them to be recorded and transcribed.
Evidence of the Request
The call for a public hearing was made by Hillary Clinton via social media, directly addressing Rep. James Comer. This public statement indicates a strategic move to pressure the committee into agreeing to her preferred format. The exchange is described as "the latest bit of acrimony" between the parties, suggesting a pattern of disagreement throughout the investigation.
The central issue is the format of the testimony: public versus private. Clinton's public call emphasizes transparency, while Comer's preference for private, albeit recorded, sessions raises questions about the perceived need for discretion.
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Sources Used:
PBS NewsHour: "Hillary Clinton calls for public hearing in House Epstein investigation" - Published: Feb 5, 2026. This article details the public exchange between Hillary Clinton and James Comer regarding the format of her testimony and provides direct quotes.