Wexner's Ohio Legacy Threatened by Epstein Scandal

Retail mogul's political influence and philanthropic work in Columbus now overshadowed by ties to disgraced financier

Published on Feb. 28, 2026

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For decades, Leslie Wexner was a towering figure in Ohio, using his retail fortune to shape the landscape of Columbus and New Albany through investments, political connections, and philanthropic giving. However, his association with the late Jeffrey Epstein has now threatened to dismantle Wexner's legacy, sparking investigations, calls to remove his name from prominent institutions, and a scramble among politicians to distance themselves from his financial support.

Why it matters

Wexner's rise coincided with a strategic foray into Ohio politics, leveraging his business acumen and wealth to gain significant influence over development projects and public policy. His connections helped transform New Albany from a small town into an upscale suburb. The fallout from the Epstein scandal now threatens to overshadow Wexner's positive contributions to the Columbus community.

The details

Records show Epstein owned property and held a senior role in Wexner's development firm in the 1990s, with Ghislaine Maxwell describing Epstein as 'running New Albany.' Wexner has stated he met Epstein in the mid-1980s, hired him to manage his finances, and severed ties in 2007 following accusations of sexual abuse, claiming to have discovered Epstein misappropriated funds. However, allegations persist, including claims from Epstein survivor Maria Farmer regarding an assault on an Ohio property 'owned and secured' by Wexner.

  • Wexner met Epstein in the mid-1980s.
  • Wexner hired Epstein to manage his finances in the 1980s.
  • Wexner severed ties with Epstein in 2007 following accusations of sexual abuse.

The players

Leslie Wexner

The founder of retail giants like Abercrombie & Fitch and Victoria's Secret, who wielded significant political and philanthropic influence in Ohio.

Jeffrey Epstein

The disgraced financier who had connections to Wexner's business and property in New Albany, Ohio.

Ghislaine Maxwell

Epstein's longtime associate who described him as 'running New Albany.'

Maria Farmer

An Epstein survivor who alleged an assault on an Ohio property 'owned and secured' by Wexner.

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What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident (San Francisco Chronicle)

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee (Instagram)

What’s next

The House Oversight Committee recently traveled to New Albany to depose Wexner, and calls to remove his name from Ohio State University buildings are growing.

The takeaway

The Epstein scandal threatens to eclipse Wexner's positive contributions to Columbus, leaving a complex and potentially tarnished legacy, as politicians who once accepted his donations now attempt to distance themselves.