Trump Sues Epstein Estate, Wolff Over Alleged Plot to Derail Campaign

Former president claims leaked emails show collaboration to undermine his political ambitions

Feb. 1, 2026 at 12:55pm

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Former President Donald Trump has announced plans to file a lawsuit against the estate of Jeffrey Epstein and author Michael Wolff, accusing them of plotting to undermine his political ambitions. Leaked emails appear to reveal a collaboration between Wolff, who acted as Epstein's informal adviser prior to the 2016 presidential election, and the disgraced financier, both seemingly aiming to derail Trump's campaign.

Why it matters

This legal battle highlights the ongoing fallout from Trump's association with Epstein, as well as the former president's continued efforts to shape his public narrative and defend his political legacy. The case also raises questions about the ethics of journalists and their relationships with controversial figures.

The details

In one email, Wolff allegedly suggested to Epstein that he could be the 'bullet' to end Trump's presidential aspirations. Another message reportedly advised Epstein to allow Trump to 'hang himself' during television interviews concerning their association. Trump has claimed that the latest Epstein file dump absolves him of any wrongdoing, though he did not provide a rationale for this.

  • On Saturday evening, Trump addressed the media aboard Air Force One and announced his intention to launch a legal battle against Wolff and the Epstein estate.
  • The latest tranche of Epstein files was released on Friday, which included details about Bill Gates and the UK's former Prince Andrew.

The players

Donald Trump

The 79-year-old former president of the United States who is planning to sue the Epstein estate and author Michael Wolff.

Jeffrey Epstein

The disgraced financier who was an informal adviser to author Michael Wolff prior to the 2016 presidential election.

Michael Wolff

An author who allegedly collaborated with Epstein to undermine Trump's political ambitions, according to leaked emails.

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What they’re saying

“Wolff, who I consider a third-rate writer, was conspiring with Jeffrey Epstein to damage me politically or in other ways, and that has become abundantly clear.”

— Donald Trump

“I think you should let him hang himself. If he says he hasn't been on the plane or to the house, then that gives you a valuable PR and political currency.”

— Michael Wolff, Author

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights the ongoing political and legal battles surrounding Trump's association with Epstein, as well as the ethical questions around journalists' relationships with controversial figures. It also raises concerns about the use of leaked information and the potential for abuse of power in the pursuit of political agendas.