WASHINGTON — A controversial report describing a bizarre, typewritten note allegedly styled as a fictional conversation between Donald Trump and Jeffrey Epstein has triggered heated political fallout and denials from Republican lawmakers.
The Wall Street Journal reported this week that the note, allegedly bearing Trump’s signature and included in a letter involving the outline of a naked woman, contained an imagined exchange between Trump and Epstein. The dialogue references secrecy, shared traits, and cryptic remarks, ending with the line: “A pal is a wonderful thing. Happy Birthday — and may every day be another wonderful secret.”
It remains unclear how the letter was produced, who authored the fictional conversation, or whether Trump had any role in its creation. No physical copy of the letter has been released publicly.
Sen. JD Vance (R-Ohio) condemned the story Thursday, posting on X, “Forgive my language but this story is complete and utter bullshit. The WSJ should be ashamed for publishing it.” Vance added, “Where is this letter? Would you be shocked to learn they never showed it to us before publishing it?”
Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (D-N.Y.) responded Friday, pressing for transparency in the Epstein investigation. “Why are you fighting back against releasing what your administration and DOJ knows about Epstein? Release the unedited video and the files. Bring it to light,” she posted.
The Department of Justice has not commented publicly on the letter or the report. The Wall Street Journal has stood by its publication.