Following the release of documents detailing interactions between Jeffrey Epstein and Columbus businessman Les Wexner, a growing number of Ohio elected officials are announcing they will donate campaign contributions received from Wexner to charitable organizations.
Wexner to Testify Before Congress
Wexner is scheduled to be deposed by members of the U.S. House on Wednesday as part of the committee’s investigation into Jeffrey Epstein. He was originally subpoenaed on January 23rd. According to a statement from his legal representative, the U.S. Attorney previously indicated Wexner was considered a source of information and not a target in the investigation, and he fully cooperated with authorities in 2019.
Senator Jon Husted is among those pledging to donate contributions. Husted’s campaign stated he has directed them to donate Wexner’s money to charity. Representatives Mike Carey, Joyce Beatty, State Senators Michele Reynolds and Beth Liston, and Columbus City Council President Shannon Hardin have also announced similar actions.
Officials stated their decisions followed the recent release of documents referencing Wexner and his interactions with Epstein. Hardin, in a Facebook post, described an unsolicited $10,000 check received last year as “uncomfortable” and indicated those funds, along with an additional $10,000 in previous contributions, have been donated to the Columbus Promise.
Reynolds stated the campaign would donate funds received from the Wexners to charities supporting youth leaders and families facing food insecurity. Beatty announced donations to organizations supporting survivors of sex trafficking and abuse. Carey will donate to organizations aimed at preventing human trafficking and supporting victims. Balderson will donate to Safe Harbor Ohio, a nonprofit supporting victims of sex trafficking. Liston donated $1,000 received in October 2024 to a local organization supporting at-risk youth.
Columbus Mayor Andrew Ginther’s campaign did not state whether contributions would be donated, but released a statement condemning Epstein’s crimes and demanding accountability.
A congressional deposition is scheduled to take place in central Ohio. Legal expert Pamella Seay explained that, unlike a judicial deposition, a congressional deposition does not carry the same legal protections. Seay noted that Congress is likely seeking to understand the nature of Wexner’s relationship with Epstein, including whether he referred others to him.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the purpose of Les Wexner’s upcoming deposition?
The deposition is being conducted by members of the U.S. House in connection to their investigation into Jeffrey Epstein.
Has Les Wexner been charged with a crime?
No, Wexner has never been charged with a crime in connection to Epstein.
What has Senator Husted done regarding donations from Les Wexner?
Senator Husted has directed his campaign to donate contributions received from Les Wexner to charity.
As investigations into Epstein’s crimes continue, how will public scrutiny of those associated with him shape the political landscape?
