A survivor of Jeffrey Epstein’s abuse is cautiously responding to a rare public statement by Melania Trump, who has denied any connection to Epstein while urging Congress to hold hearings centered on survivors.
In an interview with Sky News, survivor Lisa Phillips described Trump’s remarks as a potentially meaningful shift, while also challenging her to follow through with action.
“This is the first person I see that has some real power that’s saying, here’s a new idea,” Phillips said. “I would say, show us what you can do. What’s next?”
Melania Trump Pushes Back on Allegations
Speaking during a surprise White House address, Melania firmly rejected longstanding rumors linking her to Epstein, calling them “mean-spirited attempts to defame” her.
“I have never been friends with Epstein,” she said, adding that she was not a victim, witness, or participant in any of his crimes. She declared that her name has never appeared in legal documents related to the case.
Melania Trump also called on Congress to organize a public, survivor-centered hearing, arguing that victims deserve the opportunity to testify under oath and have their accounts formally recorded.
“Each and every woman should have her day to tell her story in public, if she wishes,” she said.
Survivor Reaction: Hope Mixed With Skepticism
Phillips, who says she endured years of abuse in her early 20s, acknowledged that the First Lady’s statement could represent progress, but stressed that survivors have seen little meaningful action in recent months.
“Nothing has worked for the last nine months,” she said, expressing frustration with officials she claims have failed to advance accountability efforts.
While some survivors have reportedly opposed the idea of public hearings—fearing retraumatization or political exploitation—Phillips took a broader view.
“I understand what my survivor sisters are saying,” she noted, “but I look at the bigger picture.”
She also suggested that if Trump is serious about supporting victims, direct engagement should follow.
“Why would you make a statement like that and then not do anything?” Phillips asked. “Wouldn’t the next step be to reach out to survivors?”
Ongoing Debate Over Accountability
The renewed attention comes years after Epstein’s arrest and death in 2019, a case that exposed a vast network of alleged abuse involving powerful figures. Despite multiple investigations and civil cases, critics argue that many questions remain unanswered.
Phillips echoed that sentiment, explaining the need for transparency and tangible next steps.
“If you want to see justice or accountability, and so do all the survivors and the American people, what’s the next step there?” she said.
Timing Raises Questions
Melania Trump’s decision to speak out now has also prompted speculation. Phillips suggested the timing may reflect mounting pressure or a personal tipping point.
“I think everyone has a boiling point,” she said. “There’s a lot that has happened in the last nine months.”
What Comes Next
It remains unclear whether Congress will act on Melania’s call for hearings or how survivors will ultimately respond to the proposal.
For now, Phillips’ message is clear: words alone are not enough.
“This has to lead to something,” she said. “We’ve been waiting.”
