A closed-door congressional deposition involving Hillary Clinton was abruptly paused this week after a photo from inside the hearing room surfaced online, triggering concerns about rule violations and the integrity of the proceedings.
The former first lady appeared before the House Oversight Committee on February 26 as part of a broader investigation into the late Jeffrey Epstein and his network of associates. The session, which took place behind closed doors, stretched on for hours as Clinton answered questions about whether she had any personal contact or knowledge of Epstein’s activities.
Hillary Clinton and Jeffrey Epstein. Credit / Getty Images
During her opening remarks, Clinton stated that she had no direct encounters with Epstein and said she had never traveled with him or visited any of his properties. She maintained that she had no personal knowledge of his crimes.
Midway through the deposition, an image believed to have been taken inside the hearing room began circulating on social media, shared by Benny Johnson, who claimed the photo came from Rep. Lauren Boebert. The post quickly gained traction, sparking criticism and questions about whether House rules governing closed-door testimony had been violated.
CHAPPAQUA, NEW YORK – FEBRUARY 26: Former U.S. Secretary of State Hillary Clinton speaks to the press after testifying in a closed-door deposition with the House Oversight Committee at the Chappaqua Performing Arts Center on February 26, 2026 in Chappaqua, New York. Former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton provided testimony to the Republican-led House Oversight Committee as part of an ongoing inquiry into the late sex offender Jeffrey Epstein’s case. Former U.S. President Bill Clinton is expected to testify tomorrow. (Photo by David Dee Delgado/Getty Images)
The sudden leak prompted officials to temporarily halt the proceedings while they investigated how the image was obtained and shared. Clinton’s advisers objected strongly, arguing that photos are prohibited during private congressional depositions. A spokesperson said the pause was necessary to determine whether any members of Congress or staff had broken established rules meant to protect the process.
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