Calls for Wasserman’s Resignation Over Epstein Connection
Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass is urging Casey Wasserman, the chair of the 2028 Olympic Organizing Committee, to resign. This call comes after some troubling revelations about Wasserman’s past interactions with Ghislaine Maxwell, a known associate of Jeffrey Epstein.
As details from the Epstein files emerged, emails dating back to 2003 showed Wasserman engaging in flirtatious banter with Maxwell. In one message, he remarked, “I think about you all the time, so how can I see you in a tight leather outfit?”
In another exchange, they discussed the idea of being naked on the beach, to which Maxwell asked, “Isn’t it so foggy that if you were floating around naked on the beach, no one could see you unless they were nearby?” Wasserman responded, “Or something like that.”
Wasserman later expressed his regret over the interactions with Maxwell, stating they took place “long before her horrific crimes came to light.” However, despite an investigation that led the LA28 board to retain him, Mayor Bass insists he should step down.
Bass stated, “My opinion is that he should resign,” while also noting that Wasserman cannot be dismissed outright. She characterized the board’s choice to keep him as “unfortunate.” “I think that decision was unfortunate,” she told CNN. “I don’t support this decision. I believe the leadership needs to reevaluate it. My responsibility as the mayor is to ensure we are ready to host the most remarkable Olympics in history.”
The International Olympic Committee (IOC) has managed to sidestep controversy by refraining from detailed comments on the matter. IOC spokesman Mark Adams mentioned, “We are aware that there are a number of discussions going on at this time, but we will not be commenting further. This issue is clearly for the LA28 board to address, but not at this stage.”
Wasserman’s entertainment and sports agency has faced backlash since the emails were released, leading to some high-profile clients, including pop star Chapel Lawn and soccer player Wambach, ending their contracts.
In December 2021, Maxwell was convicted of sex trafficking minors and received a 20-year prison sentence.
