Jeffrey Epstein’s Role in Democratic Star’s Political Upset

Chuck RossJune 22, 2023

Democratic Congresswoman Stacey Plaskett’s Surprising Rise to Power

In 2014, Democratic congresswoman Stacey Plaskett of the Virgin Islands achieved a remarkable victory in her district, considered one of the “biggest upsets” in political history. However, newly released emails suggest that her success may be attributed, in part, to her association with convicted pedophile Jeffrey Epstein.

Plaskett admitted to meeting Epstein multiple times after entering politics, including visits to his office in the Virgin Islands and his New York City townhouse. Despite Epstein’s public conviction for child sex crimes, Plaskett sought campaign donations from him for herself and Democratic committees. Although she denies knowledge of Epstein’s contributions, emails revealed in court documents show her actively involving him in her fundraising efforts.

These revelations cast a dark cloud over Plaskett’s rise within the Democratic Party. Despite lacking voting power, she has secured influential positions in Washington, such as a managerial role in the second Donald Trump impeachment, a seat on the House Intelligence Committee, and the top Democratic position on the high-profile Weaponization of Government Subcommittee.

Plaskett’s aggressive tactics during Weaponization Subcommittee hearings have garnered praise from liberals. However, she has faced criticism for threatening journalist Matt Taibbi with jail time during a hearing on censorship in April.

The connection between Plaskett and Epstein began at the request of former Virgin Islands first lady Cecile de Jongh. In an email, de Jongh implored Epstein to support Plaskett’s campaign, emphasizing the need to defeat her primary challenger, Shawn-Michael Malone, who had criticized Epstein’s sexual exploits. Epstein and his employees ultimately contributed $10,400 to Plaskett’s campaign, helping her secure a narrow victory.

Plaskett’s ties to Epstein persisted even as public scrutiny intensified. She continued to seek his support in subsequent campaigns, including a request for a $30,000 contribution to the Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee. Despite acknowledging awareness of Epstein’s reputation, Plaskett maintains that she was unaware of his direct contributions to her campaign.

However, campaign records and newly released emails contradict Plaskett’s claim. Epstein contributed to her campaigns in 2016 and 2018, and an email from Plaskett to Epstein’s associate explicitly requested his support and the support of those he could direct towards her.

Epstein’s involvement in Plaskett’s political career ended months before his death by suicide in a jail cell while awaiting trial. Plaskett’s office has not responded to requests for comment on these revelations.