The depositions are part of the committee’s broader investigation into the activities and network of Jeffrey Epstein, the disgraced financier who died in federal custody in 2019 while facing sex-trafficking charges. The inquiry focuses on Epstein’s relationships with influential individuals and whether any institutions failed to properly investigate or address his conduct.

In correspondence with the Clintons’ legal representatives, Comer said the committee is seeking in-person, transcribed testimony and has declined offers for written statements or informal cooperation. He argued that depositions are necessary to ensure consistency and allow members to ask follow-up questions in real time.

Comer warned that if either Bill or Hillary Clinton does not appear for the rescheduled depositions, the committee may initiate contempt of Congress proceedings, a formal process used when subpoenaed witnesses refuse to comply. Such proceedings would require a committee vote and could be referred to the full House for further action.

The postponement follows months of negotiations between the Oversight Committee and the Clintons’ attorneys over the terms and timing of testimony. The Clintons’ legal team has previously criticized the committee’s demands as excessive and politically driven, while Republicans on the panel argue that the former officials should be held to the same standards as other witnesses.

Both Bill and Hillary Clinton have denied any involvement in Epstein’s criminal activity, and neither has been charged with wrongdoing. Bill Clinton has acknowledged past interactions with Epstein, including travel on his private aircraft, but has stated he was unaware of Epstein’s crimes. No accuser has publicly alleged misconduct by either Clinton.

The committee has subpoenaed multiple individuals and reviewed large volumes of documents as part of the investigation. It remains unclear whether the Clintons will agree to the new January dates or whether the dispute will move forward to a contempt vote.