- Melania Trump issued an unexpected statement earlier this week, denying any connection to convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein.
- Speaking from a White House podium on Thursday, she condemned "unfounded and baseless lies" and "false smears" against her.
- She attributed these "false smears" to "politically motivated individuals and entities" seeking financial and political gain.
- Her adviser, Marc Beckman, explained that the statement was prompted by a combination of legacy media, social media, corporate entities, and personalities.
- Ms Trump called for an end to such statements, asserting they "must stop."
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