L.A. Olympics Chief Faces Calls to Resign Over Epstein Ties

Casey Wasserman under pressure to step down from 2028 Games committee after release of Epstein files

Published on Feb. 25, 2026

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Pressure is mounting for Casey Wasserman, the head of the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics organizing committee, to resign following the release of emails showing his past correspondence with Jeffrey Epstein's associate Ghislaine Maxwell. While Wasserman is not the highest-profile name mentioned in the Epstein files, his ties to Maxwell have led to calls for his removal, even as other powerful figures linked to Epstein have faced little consequence.

Why it matters

The Wasserman case highlights the uneven accountability for the wealthy and influential individuals named in the Epstein files, with many high-profile figures avoiding serious repercussions for their associations with Epstein and Maxwell. Wasserman's potential ouster from the LA Olympics committee would be a rare instance of an elite being held responsible.

The details

In a 2003 email exchange, Wasserman asked Maxwell, "What do I have to do to see you in a tight leather outfit?" and "Where are you, I miss you. I will be in nyc for 4 days starting april 22...can we book that massage now?" While there is no suggestion of criminal wrongdoing, Wasserman's flirtation with Maxwell, who was convicted of child sex trafficking, has led to calls for his resignation from local officials and activists.

  • The Epstein files were released on January 30, 2026 by the Department of Justice.
  • Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass urged Wasserman to resign this week.
  • Wasserman announced last week that he is selling his Wasserman agency, stating he had "become a distraction" due to the emails.

The players

Casey Wasserman

The head of the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics organizing committee and a prominent Los Angeles sports and entertainment executive.

Ghislaine Maxwell

Jeffrey Epstein's co-conspirator who was found guilty of child sex trafficking and other offenses in connection with Epstein.

Karen Bass

The mayor of Los Angeles who has urged Wasserman to resign from the LA28 Olympics committee.

Michael Carrillo

An attorney who has represented survivors of Epstein's sex trafficking and called for Wasserman's removal.

Elon Musk

The Tesla CEO who repeatedly sought invitations to Epstein's private island, even after Epstein's criminal conviction.

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What they’re saying

“I cannot fire him. My opinion is that he should step down. That's not the opinion of the board.”

— Karen Bass, Mayor of Los Angeles (CNN)

“There are a few spots that apparently drive a man wild — I suppose I could practise them on you.”

— Ghislaine Maxwell (Los Angeles Times)

What’s next

The LA28 Olympics board of directors has stated they support Wasserman remaining as chair, despite the calls for his resignation.

The takeaway

The uneven accountability for powerful individuals linked to Epstein and Maxwell is highlighted by the Wasserman case, where he faces potential ouster from the LA Olympics committee while other high-profile figures have largely avoided serious consequences for their associations with the disgraced financier and his co-conspirator.