The Shadow of Epstein: How a Billionaire’s Legacy is Unraveling in Ohio
For decades, Leslie Wexner was synonymous with success in Ohio. The founder of retail giants like Abercrombie & Fitch and Victoria’s Secret, he wasn’t just a businessman; he was a power broker who shaped the landscape of Columbus and New Albany. Now, his association with Jeffrey Epstein is threatening to dismantle that legacy, sparking investigations, calls for the removal of his name from prominent institutions, and a scramble among politicians to distance themselves from his financial support.
From Retail Empire to Political Influence
Wexner’s rise coincided with a strategic foray into Ohio politics. A $100,000 contribution to George Voinovich’s successful 1990 gubernatorial campaign opened doors, translating Wexner’s business acumen and philanthropy into civic and political influence. This relationship proved pivotal in the development of New Albany, transforming it from a small town into an upscale suburb, aided by state-funded infrastructure projects like a highway interchange for the Easton Town Center mall, anchored by Wexner’s stores.
A Coalition of CEOs and a Changing Columbus
Wexner’s influence extended beyond real estate. He fostered a coalition of CEOs credited with shedding Columbus’s image as a Midwestern backwater. Simultaneously, he continued his charitable giving, supporting pro-Jewish causes, education, and public policy initiatives, leaving his name on a hospital, art gallery, and a football training complex at Ohio State University. However, these achievements are now overshadowed by his connection to Epstein.
The Epstein Connection: A Web of Allegations
The specter of Epstein looms large over Columbus, particularly New Albany, where records show Epstein owned property and held a senior role in Wexner’s development firm in the 1990s. Ghislaine Maxwell described Epstein as “running New Albany.” Wexner has stated he met Epstein in the mid-1980s, hired him to manage his finances, and severed ties in 2007 following accusations of sexual abuse. He claims to have discovered Epstein misappropriated funds, but allegations persist, including claims from Epstein survivor Maria Farmer regarding an assault on an Ohio property “owned and secured” by Wexner.
Political Fallout and Scrambling to Distance
The fallout from the Epstein scandal is reverberating through Ohio’s political landscape. Members of the House Oversight Committee recently traveled to New Albany to depose Wexner. Calls to remove his name from Ohio State University buildings are growing. Politicians who once accepted Wexner’s donations are now attempting to distance themselves. Representative Joyce Beatty redirected contributions to organizations supporting sex trafficking victims, whereas State Treasurer Robert Sprague matched Wexner’s donations with contributions to a local housing services organization. The upcoming Senate race is also seeing Wexner’s money become a liability, with opponents highlighting past contributions.
A Legacy in Jeopardy
Despite the current scrutiny, many acknowledge Wexner’s positive contributions to Columbus. One GOP strategist noted his “50 years of amazing stuff for Columbus,” while another described him as a “Wizard of Oz” character – influential yet largely unseen. However, the Epstein scandal threatens to eclipse these achievements, leaving a complex and potentially tarnished legacy. Wexner himself has stated he was “conned” by Epstein and had no knowledge of his criminal activity.
FAQ
- What is Leslie Wexner’s connection to Jeffrey Epstein? Wexner hired Epstein to manage his finances in the 1980s and severed ties in 2007 after allegations of abuse surfaced. Epstein also held a role in Wexner’s development firm and owned property in New Albany.
- How has the Epstein scandal affected Wexner’s reputation? The scandal has led to investigations, calls for the removal of his name from institutions, and politicians distancing themselves from his financial support.
- What role did Wexner play in the development of New Albany, Ohio? Wexner’s investments and connections with state officials were instrumental in transforming New Albany from a small town into an upscale suburb.
Did you recognize? Wexner announced he was no longer a Republican in 2018, a shift that coincided with growing scrutiny of his ties to Epstein.
Pro Tip: Understanding the interplay between business, politics, and philanthropy is crucial when evaluating the impact of influential figures like Leslie Wexner.
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