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Fact check: Are there any records of Melania Trump attending events hosted by Jeffrey Epstein?
1. Summary of the results
Based on the available analyses, there are no confirmed records of Melania Trump attending events specifically hosted by Jeffrey Epstein. However, the sources reveal documented interactions between the Trumps and Epstein at events hosted by others.
The most concrete evidence shows that Donald Trump and Melania Trump were photographed with Jeffrey Epstein and Ghislaine Maxwell at Mar-a-Lago in 2000 [1] [2]. Additionally, Jeffrey Epstein attended a Victoria's Secret fashion event in New York in 1999 where he was seen talking and laughing alongside Donald Trump and his future wife, Melania Trump [3].
The sources also confirm that Jeffrey Epstein attended Donald Trump's wedding to Marla Maples in 1993 [4] [1], though this predates Trump's relationship with Melania, as Donald Trump and Melania Trump were married in 2005 [4].
2. Missing context/alternative viewpoints
The original question focuses narrowly on events "hosted by" Epstein, but missing context reveals documented social interactions between the couples at various venues. The sources indicate these were part of broader social circles in New York and Palm Beach high society.
A significant alternative narrative emerges from biographer Michael Wolff's claims that Jeffrey Epstein played a role in introducing Melania to Trump [5]. This suggests potentially deeper connections than casual social encounters. However, Melania has denied any link to Epstein in her memoir [5].
The timing context is crucial: Virginia Giuffre was recruited by Maxwell while working at Mar-a-Lago in 2000 [6], the same year and location where the Trumps were photographed with Epstein and Maxwell. This adds significance to their documented presence together.
3. Potential misinformation/bias in the original statement
The original question's framing as "events hosted by Jeffrey Epstein" may be too narrow and potentially misleading, as it excludes documented social interactions at third-party events and venues. This framing could allow for technically accurate denials while obscuring the broader pattern of social connections.
The question also lacks temporal context - it doesn't specify whether it's asking about events before, during, or after public awareness of Epstein's criminal activities. The documented interactions occurred in 1999-2000, well before Epstein's 2008 conviction.
The White House's characterization of Michael Wolff as a "proven liar" [5] when responding to claims about Melania's connection to Epstein suggests potential bias in official responses, as this attacks the messenger rather than addressing the substance of the claims with evidence.