Jeffrey Epstein advised Steve Bannon on his European political tour in 2018, according to emails released by the US House oversight committee. The correspondence shows Epstein discussing strategy with the former Trump adviser, including arranging meetings with foreign leaders.
In one email, Epstein wrote that he had spoken to 'one of the country leaders that we discussed' and suggested laying out a strategy plan. He later advised Bannon that 'if you are going to play here, you'll have to spend time, europe by remote doesn't work'. Bannon replied: 'Agree 100% How do I do that???'
The emails, spanning 2009 to 2019, reveal how Epstein maintained contact with influential figures despite his 2008 conviction for soliciting prostitution from a minor. They include exchanges with Larry Summers, the former US Treasury secretary, and Kathryn Ruemmler, a former White House counsel under Barack Obama.
Summers discussed personal interactions with Epstein, who offered coaching on responses. Ruemmler exchanged messages with Epstein about Donald Trump, calling him 'so gross', to which Epstein replied: 'worse in real life and upclose.'
Physicist Lawrence Krauss also sought Epstein's advice on handling a journalist's inquiry after facing sexual harassment allegations. Epstein advised him not to reply.
The documents highlight how Epstein's powerful friends normalised his behaviour, with none challenging him over his crimes. The casual tone of the emails suggests he remained welcome in elite circles despite his status as a convicted sex offender.
