Les Wexner: How the billionaire enabled Jeffrey Epstein’s rise

Al JazeeraEN 5 min read 100% complete by Caolán MageeFebruary 19, 2026 at 06:57 PM

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long article 5 min

In February 2026, billionaire Les Wexner was questioned by US lawmakers regarding his relationship with Jeffrey Epstein and his potential role in Epstein's rise to power. The House Oversight Committee's deposition followed the release of Justice Department documents related to Epstein, in which Wexner's name appears. Wexner claims he was "conned" by Epstein, who cultivated relationships with influential figures, including Wexner and former Israeli Prime Minister Ehud Barak. Wexner's wealth and connections were instrumental in transforming Epstein from a money manager into a figure of global influence. The released documents reveal the extent to which Epstein integrated himself into Wexner's financial and philanthropic activities.

Key Entities & Roles

Key Player Opposition Context

David Min 30% Wexner Center for the Arts 30% Israel 40% House Oversight Committee 50% Ohio 50% L Brands 50% US Department of Justice 60% Ehud Barak ×260% United States ×270% Jeffrey Epstein ×790% Les Wexner ×690%

Keywords

jeffrey epstein 100% les wexner 100% sex trafficking 70% financial ties 60% wealth and influence 60% house oversight committee 50% ehud barak 40% l brands 40%

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Negative

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Al Jazeera

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90%

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jeffrey epstein les wexner sex trafficking financial ties wealth and influence house oversight committee ehud barak l brands

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