The Shared World
The New York social world that Jeffrey Epstein entered in the late 1980s through his association with Les Wexner included real estate developers, socialites, and media figures. Donald Trump was a central figure in that world.
The Mar-a-Lago Connection
Both Epstein and Trump were regulars at Mar-a-Lago in Palm Beach. They inhabited the same social circuit, attended some of the same events, and were seen together at the club on multiple occasions.
Trump’s Quoted Statement
In a 2002 New York Magazine interview, Trump stated of Epstein: ‘I’ve known Jeff for fifteen years. Terrific guy. He’s a lot of fun to be with. It is even said that he likes beautiful women as much as I do, and many of them are on the younger side.‘
The Distancing After Arrest
After Epstein’s 2019 arrest, Trump stated he had ‘not spoken to’ Epstein in ‘about fifteen years’ and called him a ‘nice guy’ before calling him a ‘sleazebag.’ He expressed sympathy for victims.
The Virginia Roberts Allegation
Virginia Giuffre alleges in her account that she encountered Trump at Mar-a-Lago as part of the Epstein social circuit. Trump has denied any improper conduct. No criminal allegations against Trump have been sustained.