New York, October 2025
In a twist worthy of a political thriller, Melania Trump—former First Lady of the United States—now finds herself at the center of a lawsuit that could crack open some of the most closely guarded secrets in American high society. The plaintiff? Michael Wolff, renowned author, journalist, and Donald Trump’s former biographer—also one of the few people who spent hours interviewing Jeffrey Epstein about his life and connections.

The Lawsuit That Shocks the Establishment

It all began with a threat. On October 15, Melania Trump’s legal team sent Wolff a demand letter, accusing him of defamation over statements he made about her alleged ties with Epstein and Trump. The letter, sent by attorney Alejandro Brito, insisted Wolff retract his claims and issue a public apology. Among the accusations:

Melania was deeply involved in Epstein’s social circle.
She met Trump through modeling agencies connected to both men.
Epstein allegedly told Wolff that Trump and Melania first met aboard Epstein’s plane.
Wolff described the Trump-Melania marriage as a “sham” and part of a larger scheme.

But instead of backing down, Wolff took the fight to court. On the deadline set by Melania’s lawyers, he filed a verified complaint in New York Supreme Court—the state’s top trial court—seeking declaratory judgment and damages under New York’s powerful anti-SLAPP statute, which protects journalists from lawsuits meant to silence free speech.

Why This Lawsuit Matters

Wolff’s suit is about more than just protecting his own reporting—it’s a stand for the First Amendment. He argues that Melania’s legal threats are an attempt to chill investigative journalism and public debate about matters of deep public interest.
“You cannot use a legal remedy to intimidate someone from speaking out,” Wolff said. “Everything I’ve reported is either true or protected opinion. I will not apologize, and I will not retract.”

The anti-SLAPP law in New York gives Wolff a powerful shield. If he wins, not only will Melania have to pay his legal fees, but the court will likely allow him to subpoena key witnesses—including Melania, Donald Trump, and figures from Epstein’s inner circle—to testify and produce documents.

What’s at Stake?

If discovery moves forward, the case could force open the vault of secrets surrounding Epstein’s network, the modeling industry, and the Trump family’s connections. Emails, text messages, and sworn depositions could reveal:

How Melania came to the United States and her early connections in New York’s elite circles.
The true nature of her relationship with Epstein and Trump.
The role of modeling agencies and social events in connecting powerful figures.

Wolff is clear:
“This is an opportunity to ask all the questions powerful people have dodged for years. The public deserves answers.”

A Broader Battle for Press Freedom

Melania’s legal team has sent similar threat letters to other journalists—including Hunter Biden and even the New York Times—but rarely follow through with lawsuits. Wolff’s decision to countersue is a rare, bold move that could set a precedent for how the press defends itself against intimidation from the world’s most powerful families.

“Everyone in the media feels the chill,” Wolff observed. “But someone has to stand up. If I win, it’s not just about me—it’s about protecting journalism itself.”

Why Now? The Epstein Files and a Government Shutdown

This lawsuit unfolds against the backdrop of a government shutdown, itself driven by a fight over the release of the Epstein files. Congressional Republicans have blocked the swearing-in of Adelita Grijalva, the Arizona Congresswoman-elect whose vote would force publication of the files. The stakes couldn’t be higher:

The public’s right to know the truth about Epstein’s connections.
The ability of journalists to report freely without fear of retaliation.
The integrity of American democracy and the rule of law.

What Comes Next?

Wolff is preparing to use his subpoena power to the fullest—deposing Melania, Trump, and anyone else who can shed light on the Epstein story.
“I want the emails, the texts, the documents. I want to know the truth,” he said. “Melania wanted to play hardball. Let’s play.”

He’s also calling on the public and fellow journalists for support, hinting at crowdfunding efforts to cover legal costs.
“This isn’t just my fight. It’s for anyone who believes the truth matters.”

A Test for Democracy

As the legal battle heats up, all eyes are on New York. Will the courts defend the right to report on the powerful? Will the truth about Epstein, Trump, and Melania finally come to light?
One thing is clear: This is not just a lawsuit. It’s a showdown over the future of free speech, investigative journalism, and the public’s right to know.