Newly released documents reveal that the late financier and convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein expressed support for far-right activist Tommy Robinson and made troubling comments regarding the Holocaust. These revelations come from a trove of over 23,000 documents disclosed by U.S. lawmakers, which also raised eyebrows with mentions of prominent figures such as Donald Trump and Prince Andrew.
One email dated 2018 shows Epstein celebrating Robinson’s release from jail, stating, “TOMMY ROBINSON. !! good work.” Robinson, whose real name is Stephen Yaxley-Lennon, was imprisoned for contempt of court after violating reporting restrictions during a trial. In a separate email, Epstein made a deeply unsettling joke referencing Kristallnacht, a significant event in Jewish history, by stating, “Kristallnacht always has the big fire.” He furthered this comment with another message that read, “Come join us at Auschwitz, opening night, special,” which linked the comment to the 2018 U.S. mid-term elections.
These emails illustrate a previously hidden facet of Epstein’s personality, showcasing his engagement in right-wing politics and his extensive network of global political connections. Epstein communicated with various political figures, including diplomats from Europe, Russia, and Saudi Arabia, often discussing strategies to promote a resurgence of populism in Europe.
Epstein had regular exchanges with Steve Bannon, the former chief strategist for Donald Trump. In one message, he urged Bannon to intensify conservative movements across Europe, suggesting that the endeavor would require substantial effort and personal engagement. “There are many leaders of countries we can organise for you to have one on one with,” Epstein said, emphasising the need for personal connections in political advocacy.
Bannon, inquiring about the potential reshuffling of high-profile U.S. officials, received a pointed response from Epstein regarding Trump’s daughter and son-in-law, stating, “jared and Ivanka. need to go. !!!” This indicates Epstein’s desire to influence U.S. political dynamics from a distance.
Epstein also positioned himself as a global intermediary with ties to powerful leaders. He claimed to have met with leaders from the Arab League and even mentioned receiving gifts from Mohammed bin Salman, the Saudi crown prince, stating, “Can you believe MBS sent me a TENT carpets and all.” His involvement extended to suggesting meetings with key figures, including Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov, in the lead-up to a summit between Trump and Vladimir Putin.
In late 2018, as investigations into his activities intensified, Epstein claimed he was being targeted in a political scheme against Trump, asserting, “It’s wild, because I am the one able to take him down.” His comments reflect a mindset that intertwined his legal troubles with the broader political landscape.
Following his arrest on sex-trafficking charges in 2019, Epstein died in what authorities ruled a suicide while awaiting trial. The Republican-controlled U.S. House of Representatives is now expected to vote imminently on the release of further Epstein documents, following a shift in position from President Trump, who previously opposed the release.
The implications of these documents not only shed light on Epstein’s political affiliations and ideologies but also raise significant questions about the extent of his influence and the intersections of power, politics, and personal conduct.
