Casey Wasserman is facing increasing pressure to step down as chair of the LA28 organizing committee, especially after fresh documents from the Justice Department unveiled flirtatious emails exchanged between him and Ghislaine Maxwell.
So far, at least seven elected officials have publicly called for his resignation following the release of a massive document trove containing 3 million pages, videos, and images that highlight these damaging communications with Maxwell, a former associate of Jeffrey Epstein.
The Epstein File Transparency Act, enacted in November 2025, mandates the public release of all records tied to convicted sex traffickers and their networks within a month.
Wasserman maintains that he does not know Epstein or Maxwell personally or professionally.
“I believe Casey Wasserman should resign,” stated Los Angeles County Supervisor Janice Hahn, who collaborates with Wasserman and the committee for the upcoming 2028 Olympics. She mentioned that his involvement has become more of a liability than an asset.
She added, “His presence will only distract our athletes from their crucial preparations for 2028.”
The emails date back over two decades and reveal discussions of intimate topics during Wasserman’s marriage. For instance, he allegedly asked Maxwell to set up a massage and remarked on her wearing tight leather attire.
Maxwell reciprocated with messages about how much they missed each other, including one where Wasserman offered a massage that could “drive a man crazy,” according to the documents.
Wasserman expressed remorse for his interactions with Maxwell, stating, “I deeply regret my associations with Ghislaine Maxwell over 20 years ago, well before her horrific crimes were revealed.” He added, “I am sincerely sorry for any affiliation with either of them.”
Critics point out that Wasserman’s apologies fall short, especially since victims have pushed for these files to be made public in hopes of prompting meaningful action from those in power.
“LA28 is looking forward to having more women involved in the Olympic and Paralympic Games than ever before,” remarked Director Lindsey Horvath, who is contemplating a run for mayor. She questioned, “What does it say about our organization being led by someone who was close to a convicted human trafficker? This is a moment for LA28 to demonstrate its commitment to women.”
Meanwhile, Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass, who has partnered with Wasserman on Olympic planning and acknowledged her work with LA28, has remained quiet on this unfolding situation. Her office has not yet responded to requests for comments.
