Senate Candidate Cancels Fundraiser Over Co-Host's Epstein Ties

Dan Osborn, an independent running for U.S. Senate in Nebraska, nixed a D.C. event after learning of a co-host's alleged links to the convicted sex offender.

Published on Feb. 10, 2026

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Dan Osborn, an independent candidate running for the U.S. Senate in Nebraska, canceled a Tuesday fundraiser in Washington, D.C. at the last minute over concerns about a co-host's alleged ties to convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. The co-host, Democratic operative Dana Chasin, was named in an email sent to the Justice Department by a lawyer representing a woman who said Chasin flew her to Epstein's Manhattan townhouse.

Why it matters

Osborn has been vocal on social media about the need for accountability for Epstein's victims and associates, making the decision to cancel the event over the co-host's alleged links significant. The story also highlights the continued fallout from the Epstein scandal and the scrutiny political candidates face over their associates' connections.

The details

According to Politico, Chasin's name appeared on the invitation for the Osborn fundraiser. In a March 2024 email, a lawyer representing a woman said Chasin flew the woman to Epstein's Manhattan townhouse for sex with powerful men, though the email did not make any direct accusations against Chasin. Osborn's campaign said "Anyone who hurt kids or engaged in other illegal activity needs to be arrested and prosecuted," but did not respond to questions about the vetting process for the co-hosts.

  • The fundraiser was scheduled for Tuesday, February 11, 2026.
  • The March 2024 email from the lawyer to the Justice Department referenced Chasin's alleged ties to Epstein.

The players

Dan Osborn

An independent candidate running for the U.S. Senate seat in Nebraska.

Dana Chasin

A Democratic operative who has worked for former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton and was a co-host of the canceled Osborn fundraiser.

Jeanne Christensen

A lawyer representing a woman who said Chasin flew her to Epstein's Manhattan townhouse.

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What they’re saying

“Anyone who hurt kids or engaged in other illegal activity needs to be arrested and prosecuted.”

— Osborn campaign spokesperson (Politico)

“There is a small, powerful group of ELITES who think they can do anything they want on this earth. They think they are deserving. They think they are exceptional.”

— Dan Osborn, Senate Candidate (X)

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 growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.