Story perspectives

Journalist's Controversial Emails with Epstein Raise Ethical Questions

11/17/2025

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Summary

Story summary

Landon Thomas Jr., a New York Times journalist, exchanged emails with Jeffrey Epstein between 2015 and 2018, discussing U.S. President Donald Trump and media inquiries.
Epstein, convicted for soliciting a minor, supplied Thomas with Trump information, including references to interactions with young women.
Critics say the relationship raised ethical concerns because Thomas did not report Epstein's criminal activities.
Thomas left the Times in early 2019 after ethical lapses were uncovered.

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Story summary

Landon Thomas Jr., a New York Times journalist, exchanged emails with Jeffrey Epstein between 2015 and 2018, discussing U.S. President Donald Trump and media inquiries.
Epstein, convicted for soliciting a minor, supplied Thomas with Trump information, including references to interactions with young women.
Critics say the relationship raised ethical concerns because Thomas did not report Epstein's criminal activities.
Thomas left the Times in early 2019 after ethical lapses were uncovered.