CNN: “I’ve never been friends with Epstein. Donald and I were invited to the same parties as Epstein from time to time, since overlapping in social circles is common in New York City and Palm Beach,” the first lady said in remarks to reporters. “To be clear, I never had a relationship with Epstein or his accomplice, (Ghislaine) Maxwell.”
Some White House officials were stunned by the timing of the remarks, which sparked rumors that the first lady was trying to get out ahead of something. But sources close to her said they were less surprised at the decision, noting Melania Trump has been increasingly frustrated by the online chatter about her relationship with Epstein…