House Republicans Skip Key Epstein Witness Deposition in Ohio

No Republican lawmakers attended the deposition of Les Wexner, a billionaire with ties to Jeffrey Epstein, in New Albany, Ohio. Democrats are criticizing this absence.
By Newsroom | Politics, Crime |

House Oversight Republicans did not attend the deposition of Les Wexner, a billionaire with deep ties to Jeffrey Epstein. This absence has led to criticism from Democrats, who argue it hinders the ongoing investigation into Epstein's activities.

Investigation Focuses on Billionaire's Role in Epstein's Network

Les Wexner, a wealthy businessman, was questioned by House Oversight Committee Democrats behind closed doors at his home in New Albany, Ohio. The deposition was part of a larger probe into Jeffrey Epstein's extensive network, particularly focusing on how Epstein managed Wexner's finances and the breadth of their long-standing relationship. The questioning followed the release of Justice Department files under the Epstein Files Transparency Act. Democrats stated that Wexner's testimony revealed potential gaps in his memory and opened new avenues for inquiry.

Evidence and Witness Statements

  • Wexner's Account: Les Wexner, 88, has maintained he was "conned" and "duped" by Epstein, whom he described as a "world-class con man." In a prepared statement, Wexner denied any wrongdoing, stating he "never witnessed nor had any knowledge of Epstein’s criminal activity." He also denied allegations of infidelity and stated his wife, Abigail, began reviewing their financial documents after suspecting Epstein's mismanagement. Wexner claimed he visited Epstein's island only once for a few hours with his family.

  • Epstein's Financial Control: Documents indicate that within a few years of their association, Wexner transferred control of his substantial fortune to Epstein. Accusers have also suggested Epstein used his connection to Wexner to boast about influencing jobs for models at Victoria's Secret.

  • Victim Allegations: Virginia Giuffre, a prominent Epstein victim, has claimed in court documents that Wexner was among the individuals to whom Epstein trafficked her. Wexner has denied ever meeting Giuffre.

  • Wexner's Name in Files: Wexner's name appears over 1,000 times in the Epstein files. However, these mentions do not imply guilt, and Wexner has not been charged with any crimes.

  • Democratic Lawmakers Present: Representatives Robert Garcia, Stephen Lynch, and Jasmine Crockett participated in the deposition.

Absence of Republican Members

Despite the critical nature of the deposition, no Republican members of the House Oversight Committee were present. This absence has drawn criticism from Democratic lawmakers, who suggest it could lead to the further politicization of the probe if Republicans continue to disengage from significant sessions.

  • Lack of Official Explanation: As of the reports, Republican leadership had not provided a comprehensive explanation or public comment regarding their absence from the Wexner deposition. The Daily Caller reportedly reached out to the House Oversight Committee for comment on this matter.

  • Broader Scrutiny: The Republican absence occurs amidst broader discussions about the handling of the Epstein files and how Congress will proceed with questioning key witnesses.

Wexner's Relationship with Epstein

The deposition aimed to explore the intricacies of the decades-long relationship between Wexner and Epstein. While Wexner claims he was merely a victim of Epstein's deception, the extent of Epstein's financial control and Wexner's alleged connections to Epstein's alleged criminal network remain areas of investigation.

  • Financial Management: The central theme appears to be how Epstein managed Wexner's vast wealth and the depth of their association. Democrats have indicated Wexner's testimony raised new questions in this regard.

  • Allegations of Exploitation: Allegations from accusers suggest Epstein leveraged his connection to Wexner to facilitate his illicit activities, including potentially offering modeling jobs through Wexner's brands.

Legal and Subpoena Context

The deposition was conducted under subpoena, highlighting the committee's intent to gather information from Wexner as part of its investigation into Epstein.

  • Subpoena Secured: The House Committee on Oversight and Government Reform had secured subpoenas for Les Wexner and two executors of Jeffrey Epstein's estate. Representative Robert Garcia was instrumental in obtaining these subpoenas.

  • Wexner's Compliance: Wexner provided testimony from his home in Ohio in response to the subpoena.

Conclusion and Implications

The absence of Republican members from the Les Wexner deposition presents a significant point of contention in the ongoing Epstein probe. Democrats contend that this non-participation undermines the investigative process and could allow for partisan interpretations of the findings. While Wexner has presented himself as a victim of Epstein's deceit, the details emerging from his testimony, coupled with the questions raised by Democratic lawmakers, suggest that further inquiry into the financial and personal entanglement between the two men is warranted. The lack of an official explanation for the Republican absence leaves open the possibility of political strategy influencing their engagement with the investigation.

Sources

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Why did House Republicans not attend the Les Wexner deposition in Ohio?
No Republican members of the House Oversight Committee were present for the deposition of Les Wexner, who has deep ties to Jeffrey Epstein. The reason for their absence has not been officially explained by Republican leadership.
Q: What was the purpose of the Les Wexner deposition in New Albany, Ohio?
The deposition was part of an investigation into Jeffrey Epstein's network, focusing on how Epstein managed Wexner's finances and their long-standing relationship. Democrats questioned Wexner behind closed doors at his home.
Q: What did Les Wexner say during his deposition?
Les Wexner, 88, stated he was 'conned' by Epstein and denied any knowledge of Epstein's criminal activities. He said his wife started checking their finances after suspecting Epstein's mismanagement and claimed he visited Epstein's island only once.
Q: What are the main concerns raised by the Democrats regarding Wexner's testimony and the Republican absence?
Democrats are concerned that the Republican absence hinders the investigation into Epstein's activities. They stated Wexner's testimony revealed potential memory gaps and opened new lines of inquiry, and they worry the absence could lead to the politicization of the probe.
Q: What is the connection between Les Wexner and Jeffrey Epstein?
Documents show that within a few years of their association, Wexner transferred control of his fortune to Epstein. Accusers have suggested Epstein used this connection to boast about influencing jobs at Wexner's companies, like Victoria's Secret, and Wexner's name appears over 1,000 times in the Epstein files, though he has not been charged with crimes.