Texts Reveal Epstein Advised Bannon During 2018 Pro-Trump Media Push
WASHINGTON – Newly revealed text messages demonstrate that Jeffrey Epstein actively advised Steve Bannon during the critical 2018 midterm election cycle, offering strategic input and facilitating connections to prominent figures within the pro-Trump orbit. The messages, obtained and reported by The Guardian, paint a picture of a clandestine collaboration between the disgraced financier and the former White House strategist as bannon spearheaded a media campaign aimed at bolstering Republican candidates.
The correspondence, spanning August 2018, reveals Epstein offering insights on political maneuvering, arranging potential meetings with key players like Peter Thiel, and even discussing the fallout from the Michael Cohen examination. This adds another layer to the already complex web of associations surrounding Epstein,who was accused of sex trafficking and died by suicide in jail in 2019 while awaiting trial. The revelations come as Bannon faces ongoing legal scrutiny and as scrutiny of Epstein’s network continues.
The texts show Epstein discussing figures within “Maga world,” including Thiel and Anthony Scaramucci, then a recently departed Trump communications director. On August 18, Epstein texted Bannon: “im back wed . ( Thiel coming ).” Three days later, he outlined priorities, writing: “1. Peter Thiel in town… 4. The mooch [Scaramucci] ( still in contact with ivanka ) has reached out to me , and asked how he can re engage with you. ?? I ve only met him once. odd.”
The pair closely followed developments in the Michael cohen case, recognizing the significance of David Pecker, the publisher of National Enquirer, receiving immunity. Epstein texted,”Pecker immunity one more drop,” to which Bannon responded,”Huge event huge.” He added, “More women payoffs coming.”
The messages also reveal a concerted effort to conceal their interactions. On August 23,Epstein proposed a meeting,writing,”Btw Im in New York tonite thru sat ,if you want to visit under the cover of darkness or breakfast tomorrow if you like.” Bannon expressed concern about surveillance, replying, “Do u have access that’s not the front door– they have 24/7 surveillance on u.” Epstein offered to visit Bannon rather, and suggested meeting at an apartment he owned on East 66th Street in Manhattan, offering multiple discreet entry points, including a “super secure” rear entrance. Bannon ultimately agreed, stating, “Just set a time. Ill be in after 430.”
Hoffenberg, Epstein’s former mentor, reportedly accused Epstein of fraud, and legal filings indicated Epstein’s involvement in the scheme. Hoffenberg died in August 2022 at the age of 77.
