Why the Rich and Powerful Couldn't Say No to Epstein

It was one of the big set-pieces in Washington in 2019. All eyes were on Donald Trump's former lawyer Michael Cohen, who was testifying to a House committee about his former boss. A Democratic member of the committee, Stacey Plaskett, was seen on camera texting someone on her phone. This week, the public found out the identity of the other person in that exchange - convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein.

According to emails made public by his estate, Epstein was encouraging Plaskett to ask about a Trump Organization employee. After Plaskett did so, Epstein texted her back: Good Work. In hindsight, this incident highlights how deeply Epstein influenced America's elite.

The Extent of His Influence

Plaskett has denied seeking Epstein's advice, stating that their messaging was part of broader outreach. She expressed disgust at Epstein's behavior and a strong support for his victims. Their exchange occurred before his arrest for trafficking, but well after his 2008 conviction for solicitation.

Six months after their exchange, Epstein was dead in his prison cell. His death incited conspiracy theories and triggered a reckoning that shook Washington and Wall Street.

In a newly released trove of documentation, over 20,000 pages reveal Epstein's ability to maintain elite connections, even post-conviction.

'He Would Use Information That He Gained'

Epstein viewed himself as a people collector, leveraging connections for personal gain, including potential blackmail. He continued to maintain contact with numerous powerful figures, such as Lord Mandelson and former Harvard President Larry Summers, who sought his counsel on personal matters.

Epstein's Eclectic Circle of Scholars, Entrepreneurs, and Politicians

Another revealing interaction was between Epstein and Noam Chomsky, where Epstein allegedly used his financial acumen to assist Chomsky. Despite their association, Chomsky later remarked that Epstein’s past did not preclude him from receiving support.

Chomsky indicated he knew Epstein was a convicted criminal but felt he was entitled to a second chance under U.S. laws.

The Ones Who Cut Ties

One notable figure who distanced himself from Epstein is Donald Trump, who cut ties after their relationship soured by the early 2000s. Trump has denied knowledge of Epstein's activities, and the White House stated he expelled Epstein for inappropriate conduct years prior.

As revelations unfold, the pervasive nature of Epstein's connections raises uncomfortable questions about the nature of power and privilege in elite circles.