US lawmakers have released over 20,000 pages of documents from the troubled estate of Jeffrey Epstein, the late financier convicted of sex offenses. The newly unearthed information mentions numerous high-profile names, including Andrew Mountbatten Windsor, the former prince, Donald Trump, and his ex-advisor Steve Bannon, revealing the extensive reach of Epstein's network.
Donald Trump has had a past friendship with Epstein, which he claims ended around 2004, prior to Epstein’s arrest. Trump continues to deny any wrongdoing concerning his ties with Epstein.
The documents shed light on various individuals with connections to Epstein, although the inclusion of their names does not suggest any impropriety. Among the notable figures mentioned is Michael Wolff, the journalist and author, whose correspondence with Epstein appears to contain advice regarding Trump during his 2016 presidential campaign.
In his emails, Wolff discusses strategies related to Trump's relationship with Epstein, including advising him on how to handle questions from CNN. Wolff reflects on this correspondence, stating he has long sought to discuss the intertwined narratives surrounding the two men.
Additionally, the files involve former Treasury Secretary Larry Summers, indicating that they had frequent dinners and discussions, particularly around political figures and events. Summers expressed his desire to distance himself from Trump’s administration, citing concerns over conflict of interest.
Lawyer Kathryn Ruemmler, who served as White House counsel during Barack Obama's presidency, is also implicated in these communications, highlighting discussions around payments made by Trump to adult film star Stormy Daniels before the 2016 election—a matter that would later lead to Trump's legal troubles.
Other notable mentions include billionaire investor Peter Thiel, who Epstein invited to his Caribbean island, and linguist Noam Chomsky, with whom Epstein reportedly communicated about various topics, including Trump.
Publicist Peggy Siegal is also mentioned, revealing how she was approached by Epstein to influence media narratives amidst the scandals. Siegal stated that while she received such requests, she did not comply with Epstein’s wishes.
This latest release of Epstein's documents reveals not only the extent of his connections and influence but also calls to question the nature of relationships between Epstein and some of the most prominent figures in contemporary society.
