Roots of a Controversial Alliance (Image Credits: Upload.wikimedia.org)
New Albany, Ohio — Retail magnate Les Wexner’s decades-long association with Jeffrey Epstein has thrust the billionaire back into the spotlight, challenging the foundations of his influence in the state he helped transform.[1][2]
Roots of a Controversial Alliance
Wexner founded The Limited in the 1960s, building an empire that included Victoria’s Secret, Abercrombie & Fitch, and Bath & Body Works. He grew into Ohio’s wealthiest resident, with a fortune once estimated at $9 billion.[3] In the mid-1980s, he met Epstein through a mutual friend and hired him as a financial advisor. By 1991, Wexner granted Epstein power of attorney, allowing him broad control over personal finances, including trusteeship of his children’s trust.[4][3]
Epstein held a senior role in Wexner’s New Albany Company during the 1990s and co-owned properties there, including homes on Wexner’s estate. Wexner transferred his Manhattan townhouse to Epstein in 1998 for $20 million, a property later central to Epstein’s activities. The partnership ended in 2007, when Wexner revoked the power of attorney amid reports of Epstein misappropriating over $200 million, including a $100 million repayment that year.[1][3]
Congressional Grilling at the Mansion
Members of the House Oversight Committee deposed Wexner for nearly five hours at his New Albany mansion on February 18, 2026. Democrats including Rep. Robert Garcia of California, Rep. Jasmine Crockett of Texas, and Rep. Stephen Lynch of Massachusetts led the questioning, with no Republicans present.[1][2] Wexner admitted visiting Epstein’s island once with family but denied witnessing crimes. He described himself as “naĂŻve, foolish, and gullible” for trusting Epstein, whom he called a “con man” and “abuser.”[1][2]
Democrats accused Wexner of providing Epstein about $1 billion, funding a lifestyle that enabled sex trafficking. They highlighted inconsistencies in his memory and a survivor’s assault at one of his properties. “There is no single person that was more involved in providing Jeffrey Epstein with the financial support to commit his crimes than Les Wexner,” Garcia stated afterward.[2]
Political Donors Rush to Distance Themselves
Wexner’s donations, totaling over $4.3 million to federal campaigns since 1980, have prompted quick action. Ohio politicians returned or redirected funds to charities aiding trafficking victims and the homeless. U.S. Rep. Joyce Beatty sent contributions to survivor groups, while state Treasurer Robert Sprague matched a $23,000 donation.[1]
- Sen. Jon Husted donated $3,500 from July 2026 to charity.
- U.S. Rep. Mike Carey gave funds to anti-trafficking organizations.
- State Sen. Michele Reynolds supported food insecurity efforts.
- Columbus City Council returned smaller sums.
Sen. Sherrod Brown criticized Husted for initially opposing Epstein file releases. Ohio House Speaker Matt Huffman noted the scandal reveals risks of “groupthink.”[2]
Legacy Under Siege in the Buckeye State
Wexner reshaped central Ohio, turning rural New Albany into a thriving suburb of over 11,000 residents complete with Georgian homes and a country club. He co-founded the Columbus Partnership in 2002 and donated heavily to Ohio State University, funding a hospital, art gallery, and football complex.[1] Easton Town Center mall bolstered the region’s economy.
Calls now mount to strip his name from these landmarks. Ohio State monitors the probe but follows strict review processes. New Albany officials praise his vision but face “guilt by association.”[4][1]
Key Takeaways
- Wexner granted Epstein sweeping financial powers in the 1990s, later alleging massive theft.
- Deposition revealed island visit but no admitted knowledge of crimes.
- Ohio leaders redirect millions in donations amid backlash.
As investigations continue, Wexner’s role as Ohio’s “Wizard of Oz” hangs in balance. The saga underscores how past associations can erode even the sturdiest legacies. What steps should Ohio institutions take next? Share your thoughts in the comments.
