Bannon Advised Epstein on Handling Abuse Allegations, Documents Show

Texts reveal former Trump aide helped Epstein strategize as legal troubles mounted

Published on Feb. 16, 2026

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Newly released documents show that Steve Bannon, a former top aide to President Trump, developed a seemingly chummy relationship with Jeffrey Epstein and advised him on how to handle resurrected allegations of sexual abuse. Bannon recommended lawyers, media strategy, and even offered to help Epstein "rehabilitate his reputation" as Epstein's legal troubles mounted in 2019 before his arrest.

Why it matters

The revelations about Bannon's involvement with Epstein raise questions about the former Trump adviser's judgment and ethics, as well as the extent to which powerful figures were willing to associate with and assist Epstein even as he faced renewed scrutiny over his history of sex crimes.

The details

The documents show that Bannon and Epstein exchanged frequent text messages, with Bannon offering advice on how Epstein should respond to the renewed allegations against him. Bannon recommended specific lawyers, suggested media strategy, and even offered to provide "media training" for Epstein. The two men also discussed political connections, with Epstein introducing Bannon to figures like former Israeli Prime Minister Ehud Barak. Bannon claimed his relationship with Epstein was strictly professional, for the purpose of a documentary film, but the documents suggest a deeper level of collaboration and chumminess between the two men.

  • In late June 2019, Bannon texted Epstein excitedly about a Miami Herald report that victims had lost a court battle to nullify a decade-old agreement protecting Epstein from prosecution.
  • In April 2019, Bannon wrote to Epstein outlining a strategy to "push back on the lies; then crush the pedo/trafficking narrative; then rebuild your image as philanthropist."
  • Bannon and Epstein met in late 2017, after which Bannon promised to help Epstein rehabilitate his reputation.
  • Bannon and Epstein had planned to meet in early July 2019, but Epstein was arrested that Saturday when his plane landed in New Jersey.

The players

Steve Bannon

A former top aide to President Trump and a leader in the MAGA movement, who developed a seemingly chummy relationship with Jeffrey Epstein and advised him on handling abuse allegations.

Jeffrey Epstein

A wealthy financier who was accused of sex trafficking of minors and had a history of sexual abuse allegations, which Bannon sought to help him navigate.

Ehud Barak

The former Prime Minister of Israel, whom Epstein introduced to Bannon as Bannon sought to advise right-wing foreign politicians.

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What they’re saying

“First we need to push back on the lies; then crush the pedo/trafficking narrative; then rebuild your image as philanthropist.”

— Steve Bannon (New York Times)

“we must counter 'rapist who traffics in female children to be raped by worlds most powerful, richest men' — that can't be redeemed.”

— Steve Bannon (New York Times)

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.