LA28 Chair Urged to Step Aside Amid Controversy

Optics of leadership's ties to Epstein scandal could distract from Olympic spirit, expert says.

Published on Feb. 9, 2026

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A political media strategist and crisis management expert is calling on Casey Wasserman, the chair of the LA28 Olympic organizing committee, to step aside temporarily from his leadership role amid controversy over his past ties to the late financier Jeffrey Epstein. The author argues that while the emails may not establish legal wrongdoing, the Olympics represent "dignity, fairness and opportunity" and the association with Epstein, "now synonymous with exploitation," creates a "reputational drag" that could distract from the spirit of the Games.

Why it matters

The 2028 Olympics in Los Angeles are a once-in-a-generation opportunity to showcase the city's values, competence, culture and credibility on a global stage. Any perception of controversy surrounding the LA28 leadership could undermine public trust and overshadow the athletic achievements.

The details

The author, John Shallman, is an experienced crisis manager who has worked with corporate CEOs, Hollywood talent and public figures. He argues that Wasserman should step aside as chair while remaining on the board to guide the Games operationally. This would be "an act of strategic maturity" to protect the integrity of the Olympics, rather than an admission of guilt. Shallman suggests elevating a respected local leader like Billie Jean King, Magic Johnson or Allyson Felix to reset the spotlight and strengthen LA28.

  • The 2028 Olympic Games will take place in Los Angeles.

The players

Casey Wasserman

The chair of the LA28 Olympic organizing committee.

Jeffrey Epstein

The late financier who was convicted of sex crimes and is now "synonymous with exploitation".

Billie Jean King

A respected local leader and former Olympic athlete who could potentially replace Wasserman as chair.

Magic Johnson

A respected local leader and former NBA player who could potentially replace Wasserman as chair.

Allyson Felix

A respected local leader and former Olympic athlete who could potentially replace Wasserman as chair.

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What they’re saying

“The Olympics are not a court of law. The Games represent dignity, fairness and opportunity. The connection with people now synonymous with exploitation creates a reputational drag that won't quietly disappear.”

— John Shallman, Political media strategist and crisis manager (presstelegram.com)

What’s next

Wasserman can either fight the news cycle and hope it fades, or he can make a proactive move that demonstrates LA28 understands the stakes by stepping aside as chair while remaining on the board.

The takeaway

The 2028 Olympics in Los Angeles are a unique opportunity to showcase the city's values and competence on a global stage. Any perception of controversy surrounding the LA28 leadership could undermine public trust and overshadow the athletic achievements, so decisive action is needed to protect the integrity of the Games.