Thu Feb 05 08:09:38 UTC 2026: ### Headline: Epstein’s Influence Persisted: Emails Reveal Attempt to Broker Meeting Between Representative Plaskett and Senator Schumer

The Story:

Newly released documents from the US Justice Department reveal that Jeffrey Epstein sought to leverage his connections to arrange a meeting between US Virgin Islands Representative Stacey Plaskett and Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer in January 2018. The request came as Plaskett aimed to lobby Schumer for disaster relief funds for the US Virgin Islands in the aftermath of devastating hurricanes in 2017. An email exchange shows Erika Kellerhals, a tax lawyer working on Plaskett’s behalf, contacting Epstein for assistance. Epstein then reached out to Kathy Ruemmler, a former White House counsel under President Barack Obama and current chief lawyer for Goldman Sachs, for help in facilitating the meeting.

While it remains unclear whether the meeting ultimately took place, the revelation underscores Epstein’s continued attempts to exert influence at the highest levels of politics even after his 2008 conviction. This incident adds to existing scrutiny of Plaskett’s relationship with Epstein, including past donations and instances where Epstein reportedly coached her during a congressional hearing.

Key Points:

  • An associate of US Virgin Islands Representative Stacey Plaskett contacted Jeffrey Epstein to arrange a meeting between Plaskett and Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer in January 2018.
  • The purpose of the meeting was to lobby Schumer for disaster relief funds for the US Virgin Islands following hurricanes in 2017.
  • Epstein reached out to Kathy Ruemmler, a former White House counsel and current Goldman Sachs lawyer, for assistance in setting up the meeting.
  • It is unclear whether the meeting between Plaskett and Schumer ever occurred.
  • The revelation highlights Epstein’s continued efforts to maintain influence in political circles after his 2008 conviction for soliciting prostitution with a minor.
  • Plaskett previously faced scrutiny for her ties to Epstein, including campaign donations and reports of him coaching her during a congressional hearing.

Key Takeaways:

  • Epstein actively sought to use his connections to influence political outcomes even after his initial conviction, demonstrating the breadth and depth of his network.
  • The incident raises ethical questions about the relationships between politicians and individuals with questionable backgrounds.
  • The focus on disaster relief highlights how influential figures can become involved in seemingly benign policy matters.
  • Transparency regarding political figures’ interactions with controversial individuals is crucial for maintaining public trust.

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