It was one of the big set-pieces in Washington in 2019. All eyes were on Donald Trump's former lawyer Michael Cohen, who was testifying to a House committee about his former boss. A Democratic member of the committee, Stacey Plaskett, was preparing to question Cohen and was seen on camera texting someone on her phone.
This week, the public found out the identity of the other person in that exchange - convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. According to emails made public by his estate under a subpoena, he was encouraging her to ask about a Trump Organization employee. After Ms. Plaskett did so, Epstein texted her back: Good Work.
In hindsight, this incident has struck a chord with many, highlighting Epstein's extensive influence on America's elite. Although Plaskett has denied seeking Epstein's advice, their exchange took place before his arrest for sexual trafficking, but long after his 2008 conviction for soliciting prostitution.
The fallout from Epstein's now-legendary blackmail and connections with elites continues to unravel, particularly after his death in a jail cell in 2019. His ability to maintain friendships with influential figures, despite his heinous acts, raises questions about the moral complicity of America’s powerful.
His network included scholars, business leaders, and political figures, many of whom appeared willing to overlook his criminal history due to his financial power and influence. The documents released reveal a disturbing picture of how connections in elite circles can flourish regardless of a person's past wrongdoings, demonstrating a hypocrisy that still resonates in American society today.
Among those entangled with Epstein were high-profile figures such as Larry Summers, the former president of Harvard, who sought personal advice from Epstein, showcasing the complex web of interactions that persisted even after Epstein's notoriety grew. Others, like Peter Mandelson, maintained contact with Epstein despite his criminal convictions.
While some distanced themselves once the full scope of Epstein's actions became public, numerous others seem to have cast aside moral judgment due to their personal or financial relations with him. This reflects a troubling trend where power dynamics shield individuals from accountability, leaving society to grapple with the implications of these relationships.
