Story perspectives
Epstein's Emails Reveal Support for Kavanaugh Amid Controversy
2/16/2026
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Story summary
- Jeffrey Epstein expressed sympathy for Brett Kavanaugh during the 2018 Supreme Court confirmation hearings, as revealed in newly released emails and texts.
- Epstein criticized the treatment of Kavanaugh's accuser, Christine Blasey Ford, and described the Senate hearing as a "trap."
- Lisa Graves, a former Senate judiciary committee counsel, condemned Epstein's comments as appalling.
- Although there is no evidence Kavanaugh knew Epstein, they were connected through Kenneth Starr, who helped Epstein avoid serious charges in 2008.
- Epstein referred to Kavanaugh as his "first choice" for the Supreme Court before the official nomination.
