Maxwell Says She Was “Very Central” to Founding of Clinton Global Initiative in DOJ Interview Meta Description: In a newly released DOJ transcript, convicted associate Ghislaine Maxwell claims she played a “very central” role in launching the Clinton Global Initiative and discusses her relationship with Bill Clinton and Jeffrey Epstein.

In a newly released DOJ transcript, convicted associate Ghislaine Maxwell claims she played a “very central” role in launching the Clinton Global Initiative and discusses her relationship with Bill Clinton and Jeffrey Epstein.

Maxwell Says She Was “Very Central” to the Founding of the Clinton Global Initiative in DOJ Interview

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Washington, D.C., August 23, 2025 — Newly released transcripts from a July 2025 Department of Justice (DOJ) interview reveal a striking admission by Ghislaine Maxwell, the convicted associate of Jeffrey Epstein: she described herself as “very central” to the startup of the Clinton Global Initiative (CGI). The disclosure adds a new layer of complexity to the long-scrutinized ties connecting Maxwell, Epstein, and the Clinton circle.

1. The DOJ Interview and Maxwell’s Proffer Agreement

Earlier this month, the DOJ released a lengthy transcript and accompanying audio from its July interview with Maxwell. Conducted by Deputy Attorney General Todd Blanche over two days in Tallahassee, the exchange was part of an unusual post-conviction proffer arrangement allowing Maxwell to provide statements without fear of self-incrimination—unless she lied.

2. Her Role in the Clinton Global Initiative

When Blanche asked Maxwell if she had been involved in the "ramp up or the startup of the Clinton Global Initiative," Maxwell responded affirmatively: “I would say very central to that, yes.” She clarified that while Epstein supported her involvement, his attempts to insert himself into the initiative were unwelcome, reflecting tension between their objectives.

She further recounted traveling with former President Bill Clinton to Davos, emphasizing that Clinton never visited Epstein's private island. Her portrayal of Clinton was one of admiration and friendship, stating that he was her friend, not Epstein’s—and that she helped facilitate CGI’s early organizational staffing.

3. Historical Context of Clinton-Epstein-Maxwell Ties

Maxwell’s claims gain context against a backdrop of past reports detailing the relationships between Epstein, Maxwell, and Clinton:

• Epstein was reportedly part of the founding group behind CGI before its official launch in 2005.
• Bill Clinton used Epstein’s private jet for several trips related to philanthropic and foundation work in the early 2000s—flights often accompanied by Maxwell.
• Maxwell appeared in event photos at CGI conferences and maintained social ties within the Clinton network—even attending Chelsea Clinton’s wedding in 2010.

These earlier connections underscore the significance of Maxwell’s DOJ assertion about her foundational role in CGI—she positioned herself as an active facilitator, not merely a peripheral figure.

4. Broader Takeaways from the Interview Transcript

Besides her claims about CGI, Maxwell’s DOJ remarks touched on several key topics:

• Denials concerning Epstein’s "client list": She insisted she was unaware of any list linking Epstein to influential clients and denied knowledge of wrongdoing by figures like Bill Clinton or Donald Trump.
• Views on Trump: Maxwell described Trump as cordial and a gentleman, saying she never saw inappropriate behavior from him.
• Epstein’s death: She questioned the official finding of suicide, suggesting it may have been murder, though she dismissed certain conspiracy theories.

5. Implications and Reactions

Maxwell's statement repositions her as more than a fringe associate—it suggests she may have been a key figure in creating one of the Clinton Foundation’s most visible initiatives. This claim has consequences for:

• Public perception of CGI’s origins, calling for clarity on Maxwell’s contributions and whether credible evidence supports her account.
• Ongoing political controversy, as Maxwell’s testimony dovetails with broader scrutiny of Epstein’s support network and institutional enmeshment.
• Legal scrutiny: Maxwell continues her criminal appeal and has not ruled out seeking a pardon. Her interview may influence how judges, investigators, and the public reassess her role and credibility.

Tags:

• Ghislaine Maxwell
• Clinton Global Initiative
• DOJ transcript
• Jeffrey Epstein
• Bill Clinton
• Post-conviction interview
• Todd Blanche
• Epstein-Clinton ties
• Political philanthropy
• CGI origins