Common Sense Media Board Links to Jeffrey Epstein Raise Child Safety Questions

Several people linked to Jeffrey Epstein were on the board of Common Sense Media, an organization that helps kids with online safety. This is concerning because Epstein was a known criminal.
By Newsroom | Child Safety, Nonprofits |

Multiple individuals with documented past associations with Jeffrey Epstein have served on the board of Common Sense Media (CSM), a nonprofit focused on child safety. This development emerges amidst ongoing scrutiny of public figures’ interactions with Epstein, particularly after the exposure of his illicit activities.

Child safety nonprofit founded by Tom Steyer’s brother has multiple Epstein ties: 'No concerns' - 1

CSM was founded by Jim Steyer, brother of billionaire businessman and political figure Tom Steyer. Reports indicate that Epstein maintained correspondence with at least one CSM board member, Maren Gardner, even after news of his crimes had become public.== In one instance, Epstein described planned outings with Gardner in an email. Furthermore, Chelsea Clinton, vice chair of the Clinton Foundation, has been a board member at CSM for over a decade and her wedding was attended by Ghislaine Maxwell, a known accomplice of Epstein.

Child safety nonprofit founded by Tom Steyer’s brother has multiple Epstein ties: 'No concerns' - 2

Adam Wyden sought Epstein’s investment

In a separate but related development, emails suggest that Adam Wyden, son of Democratic Senator Ron Wyden, pursued investment from Epstein in 2016. This occurred after Epstein was a convicted child sex offender and was publicly accused of running a ring involving underage individuals. Wyden allegedly met with Epstein at his Manhattan home, a location where Epstein was also accused of criminal conduct.

Read More: Five Below Bathroom Incident: Child Safety Alarms Raised Over Predator Tactics

Child safety nonprofit founded by Tom Steyer’s brother has multiple Epstein ties: 'No concerns' - 3

Senator Wyden has been vocal about the need for transparency and accountability regarding Epstein-related records, often directing his criticism towards the Trump administration. He has indicated his investigative work into Epstein’s finances aims to expose broader complicity. Adam Wyden did not respond to requests for comment regarding these emails.

Child safety nonprofit founded by Tom Steyer’s brother has multiple Epstein ties: 'No concerns' - 4

Background on Steyer and CSM

Tom Steyer, a prominent figure in environmental activism and a former hedge fund manager, established NextGen Climate Action Committee. His brother, Jim Steyer, founded Common Sense Media. The organization's stated mission revolves around providing media and technology guidance for children and families. CSM has maintained a focus on child safety in the digital age.

Read More: House Committee Looks into Foreign Money in US Nonprofits

Senator Wyden's public stance

Senator Ron Wyden has been a vocal critic of the handling of Epstein-related information, particularly concerning the role of financial institutions. He has advocated for legislation to hold banks accountable for overlooking suspicious activities. Wyden's public statements often emphasize his commitment to uncovering financial networks tied to illicit behavior.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Who is Common Sense Media and why is it in the news?
Common Sense Media is a group that helps families with media and technology for children. It is in the news because some people who were on its board have connections to Jeffrey Epstein.
Q: What is the connection between Common Sense Media board members and Jeffrey Epstein?
Reports show that at least one board member, Maren Gardner, kept in touch with Epstein even after his crimes were known. Chelsea Clinton, a board member, attended events where Epstein's associate Ghislaine Maxwell was present.
Q: Why is Adam Wyden mentioned in relation to Jeffrey Epstein?
Emails show Adam Wyden, son of Senator Ron Wyden, asked Epstein for money in 2016. This was after Epstein was known to be a child sex offender. Wyden met with Epstein at his home.
Q: What has Senator Ron Wyden said about Jeffrey Epstein?
Senator Wyden has spoken out strongly about the need for openness about Epstein's records. He wants to show how others were involved with him financially and is critical of how information has been handled.