High-Profile Figures Burned by Epstein Files Fallout

Resignations, investigations, and reputational damage follow release of Epstein documents.

Published on Feb. 16, 2026

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The recent release of millions of pages of emails and documents related to the notorious sex offender Jeffrey Epstein has led to a wave of resignations and other fallout for high-profile individuals around the world whose dealings with Epstein have been exposed. Figures from the business, political, and academic worlds have faced consequences ranging from resignations to criminal investigations due to their associations with Epstein, even if they were not directly implicated in his crimes.

Why it matters

The Epstein files have shone a light on the extensive network of powerful and influential people who had connections to the convicted sex offender, raising questions about the extent of Epstein's influence and the accountability of those who associated with him, even after his 2008 conviction. The fallout highlights the lasting reputational damage that can result from being linked to a high-profile scandal, even without direct involvement in criminal activities.

The details

The released documents have led to the resignations of several high-profile figures, including the CEO of Dubai's largest port operator, the chief legal officer of Goldman Sachs, the chairman of a major corporate law firm, and a Yale University professor. Former U.S. President Bill Clinton and former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton have also been subpoenaed to testify about their connections to Epstein. In the UK, the fallout has even threatened the government of Prime Minister Keir Starmer, with the resignation of his chief of staff over the appointment of a former ambassador with ties to Epstein. While being mentioned in the Epstein files does not necessarily mean someone was implicated in his crimes, the mere association has been enough to cost many their jobs and reputations.

  • In August 2019, Epstein killed himself in a jail in New York City, weeks after being arrested on federal child sex trafficking charges.
  • In 2008, Epstein pleaded guilty in Florida to state criminal charges related to soliciting prostitution, with one charge related to a girl under the age of 18.
  • The recent release of millions of pages of emails and documents related to Epstein has occurred over the past several months.

The players

Jeffrey Epstein

A convicted sex offender who cultivated relationships with many rich and powerful men and women.

Keir Starmer

The current Prime Minister of the United Kingdom.

Bill Clinton

The former President of the United States.

Hillary Clinton

The former Secretary of State and wife of former President Bill Clinton.

Morgan McSweeney

The former Chief of Staff to the UK Prime Minister.

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What they’re saying

“As I have said, I regret ever knowing him, and I have enormous sympathy for the victims of Epstein's crimes.”

— Kathryn Ruemmler, Chief Legal Officer and General Counsel at Goldman Sachs (The Wall Street Journal)

“It is something that needs to be totally transparent. I've called for many, many years for everything to be put out there so people can not only see what's in them but also, if appropriate, hold people accountable. We'll see what happens.”

— Hillary Clinton (The Independent)

“The decision to appoint Peter Mandelson was wrong. He damaged our party, our country and trust in politics itself.”

— Morgan McSweeney, Former Chief of Staff to the UK Prime Minister (Financial 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

The fallout from the Epstein files highlights the lasting reputational damage that can result from even tangential associations with high-profile scandals, underscoring the need for greater transparency and accountability among the powerful and influential.