Leaked photo halts Hillary Clinton deposition: What happened behind closed doors?

A closed-door congressional deposition involving Hillary Clinton was briefly paused Thursday after a photo taken during the proceedings was leaked to social media, raising questions about compliance with House rules.

Clinton was testifying before the U.S. House Committee on Oversight and Accountability as part of its investigation into disgraced financier Jeffery Epstein. The deposition, held in Chappaqua, New York, marked a rare moment in congressional history, the first time a former first couple has appeared before a House panel under subpoena.

Unauthorized Photo Sparks Procedural Disruption

The session was interrupted after Rep. Lauren Boebert allegedly took an unauthorized photograph of Clinton during the deposition and shared it with conservative commentator Benny Johnson, who posted the image on X.

According to Clinton spokesperson Nick Merrill, the hearing was paused “while we figure out where the photo came from and why possibly members of Congress are violating House rules.”

House rules prohibit photography or electronic recording during closed-door depositions unless explicitly authorized. The image’s release quickly circulated online, intensifying partisan reactions and drawing attention away from the substance of the testimony.

The deposition later resumed and is expected to be released publicly at a later date after review.

Clinton Says She Has “No New Information” on Epstein

In her opening remarks, Clinton reportedly told lawmakers she has no new information regarding Epstein’s criminal activities beyond what is already publicly known.

House Oversight Chairman James Comer said prior to the deposition that Republican lawmakers intended to question Clinton about Epstein’s financial dealings, whether he may have acted as a foreign asset, and his connections to the Clinton Foundation.

The deposition forms part of a broader congressional investigation examining Epstein’s network of relationships with high-profile individuals and institutions.

Epstein died in federal custody in 2019 while awaiting trial on sex trafficking charges, but scrutiny of his associations continues to generate political and public interest.

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Historic Subpoena: First Former First Couple Called Before House Panel

Clinton’s appearance, alongside former President Bill Clinton, represents a historic moment. According to congressional observers, it marks the first time a former president and first lady have both testified before a House committee under subpoena.

The closed-door format allows lawmakers to conduct detailed questioning outside public view, with transcripts and video recordings typically released after internal review.

Political analysts note that while such proceedings are not unprecedented for former officials, the optics surrounding a former secretary of state and 2016 presidential nominee appearing under subpoena have intensified media attention.

Political Fallout and Online Reaction

The leaked photo controversy quickly dominated political discourse, with critics arguing it undermined procedural integrity and supporters of Boebert contending the image revealed nothing sensitive.

Boebert defended the influencer who posted the image, stating on social media that “Benny did nothing wrong.”

The episode highlights ongoing tensions within Congress over decorum, transparency, and investigative authority, particularly in high-profile cases involving former senior officials.

What Happens Next?

The deposition is expected to continue for several hours, with video footage slated for eventual public release. Lawmakers from both parties are likely to scrutinize both the substance of Clinton’s testimony and the procedural breach that briefly halted the session.

For Clinton, the appearance adds another chapter to a long public career that has included serving as U.S. senator, secretary of state, and Democratic presidential nominee.

The broader investigation into Epstein’s connections remains active, ensuring continued public focus on the proceedings in the weeks ahead.

FAQ

Why was Hillary Clinton’s deposition paused?

The deposition was paused after an unauthorized photo was taken during the closed-door session and shared on social media, potentially violating House rules.

Who leaked the photo of Hillary Clinton?

Rep. Lauren Boebert reportedly took the photo and shared it with commentator Benny Johnson, who posted it online.

What was Hillary Clinton testifying about?

She was appearing before the House Oversight Committee as part of its investigation into Jeffrey Epstein and related financial and institutional questions.

Is the deposition public?

The session was closed-door but videotaped. The recording is expected to be released publicly after review.

Did Hillary Clinton provide new information about Epstein?

According to reports, she told lawmakers she had no new information beyond what is already publicly known.

Why is this deposition significant?

It marks the first time a former first couple has appeared before a congressional panel under subpoena.

What is the House Oversight Committee investigating?

Lawmakers are examining Epstein’s financial dealings, potential foreign connections, and associations with prominent individuals and organizations.

Will Hillary Clinton face charges?

There is no indication of criminal charges stemming from this deposition. It is part of an ongoing congressional investigation.