Fact-Check Article: Trump's Denial of Writing a Birthday Card to Jeffrey Epstein
What We Know
The claim revolves around a report from the Wall Street Journal (WSJ) stating that former President Donald Trump sent a birthday card to Jeffrey Epstein for his 50th birthday in 2003. The card allegedly contained a message that concluded with the phrase, "may every day be another wonderful secret" (USA Today). The WSJ report describes the card as part of a leather-bound collection of letters from various associates of Epstein, and it includes a hand-drawn outline of a nude woman with Trump's signature (Politico).
In response to the report, Trump publicly denied writing the card, labeling the story as "false, malicious, and defamatory" and asserting, "These are not my words, not the way I talk. Also, I don’t draw pictures" (USA Today). He has also threatened legal action against the Wall Street Journal for their claims (New York Times).
Analysis
The evidence supporting the claim that Trump sent a birthday card to Epstein is primarily derived from the Wall Street Journal report, which cites documents reviewed by the publication (WSJ). The WSJ is generally regarded as a credible source, particularly in matters of business and politics. However, the sensational nature of the content—describing a "lewd" card—may raise questions about the framing and interpretation of the evidence.
Trump's denial is also significant. He has a history of disputing reports that he finds unfavorable, which can complicate the assessment of his statements. His claim that the card is "fake" and that he has "never wrote picture in [his] life" (USA Today) suggests a categorical rejection of the WSJ's narrative. However, without direct evidence proving that he did not send the card, his denial cannot fully discredit the report.
Additionally, the context surrounding the report is important. The Wall Street Journal published the story amid ongoing political tensions regarding Epstein and his connections to various high-profile individuals, including Trump. This backdrop may influence how the report is perceived by different audiences (USA Today).
Conclusion
The claim that Trump sent a birthday card to Epstein, which included the phrase "may every day be another wonderful secret," is supported by credible reporting from the Wall Street Journal. However, Trump's vehement denial of authorship complicates the narrative. Given the evidence available, the claim is best categorized as Partially True. While the existence of the card and its content is reported, Trump's denial raises questions about the authenticity of the authorship, leaving room for interpretation and skepticism.
Sources
- Trump Sues Wall Street Journal for Article on Note to Epstein
- NinjaMarion Esq. (@ninjamarion.bsky.social)
- WSJ says Trump sent lewd birthday card to Jeffrey Epstein
- Jeffrey Epstein’s Friends Sent Him Bawdy Letters for a 50th
- WSJ's birthday card report marks latest in Trump-Epstein saga
- WSJ says Trump wrote racy birthday letter to Epstein
- Trump sent Jeffrey Epstein bawdy birthday letter: WSJ - CNBC