DOJ Releases List of 'Politically Exposed Persons' in Epstein Files

The letter includes an extensive list of high-profile individuals mentioned in the records, even if they had no known interaction with Epstein or Ghislaine Maxwell.

Published on Feb. 15, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

The U.S. Department of Justice sent a letter to lawmakers describing redactions made in files related to convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. The letter includes an extensive list of 'politically exposed persons' who are referenced in the files, even if they had no known interaction with Epstein or his longtime associate Ghislaine Maxwell.

Why it matters

The release of this list raises questions about the extent of Epstein's connections to high-profile individuals and the level of transparency around the investigation into his sex trafficking ring.

The details

The letter states that names appear in the files in a wide variety of contexts, with some individuals having extensive direct email contact with Epstein or Maxwell, while others are only mentioned in unrelated press reporting. The DOJ says no records were withheld or redacted on the basis of embarrassment, reputational harm, or political sensitivity.

  • The letter was sent to lawmakers on February 15, 2026.

The players

Jeffrey Epstein

A convicted sex offender whose sex trafficking ring involved many high-profile individuals.

Ghislaine Maxwell

Epstein's longtime associate who was convicted of sex trafficking charges related to Epstein's crimes.

U.S. Department of Justice

The federal agency that sent the letter to lawmakers describing redactions made in files related to Jeffrey Epstein.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What’s next

The release of this list is likely to spur further investigation and scrutiny into Epstein's connections to powerful individuals.

The takeaway

This case highlights the need for greater transparency and accountability around high-profile criminal investigations, especially those involving influential figures.