Full Breakdown
Calls for Casey Wasserman's Resignation Amid Epstein Scandal
2/17/2026, 6:09:13 AM
Background on the Controversy
Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass has publicly called for Casey Wasserman to resign from his position as chairman of the LA28 organizing committee for the 2028 Olympic Games. This demand follows the emergence of flirtatious emails exchanged between Wasserman and Ghislaine Maxwell, a convicted sex trafficker and associate of Jeffrey Epstein. The emails, revealed in documents released by the U.S. Justice Department, date back to 2003 and include suggestive remarks about massages and personal encounters.
Official Statements & Responses
In a CNN interview, Bass stated, “I cannot fire him, but I have an opinion. And my opinion is that he should step down. That’s not the opinion of the board.” She expressed disappointment in the LA28 board's decision to retain Wasserman, emphasizing the need to reevaluate the leadership of the organization. The LA28 board, however, has backed Wasserman, citing an independent review that concluded his interactions with Epstein and Maxwell did not exceed what was already publicly known. The board praised Wasserman's "strong leadership" over the past decade.
Criticism & Opposition
Bass's call for Wasserman's resignation has been echoed by several local officials, including Los Angeles County Supervisor Janice Hahn and City Council members Hugo Soto-Martínez, Monica Rodriguez, and Imelda Padilla. They argue that Wasserman's continued presence could distract from the athletes and the preparations needed for the Games. Councilmember Nithya Raman, who is challenging Bass in the upcoming mayoral election, has also criticized the board's decision to keep Wasserman, citing concerns about accountability.
Wasserman's Response and Actions
Wasserman has publicly apologized for his past correspondence with Maxwell, stating, “I deeply regret my correspondence with Ghislaine Maxwell which took place over two decades ago, long before her horrific crimes came to light.” He has maintained that he never had a personal or business relationship with Epstein, aside from a humanitarian trip to Africa on Epstein's plane in 2002, which he undertook with his then-wife at the invitation of the Clinton Foundation. Amid the backlash, Wasserman announced plans to sell his talent and marketing agency, acknowledging that he had "become a distraction" to its operations.
What's Next for LA28?
As the controversy unfolds, the LA28 board's support for Wasserman remains firm, but the situation is fluid. With the Olympics scheduled for July 14-30, 2028, the board faces pressure to ensure that leadership does not detract from the event's success. The International Olympic Committee has refrained from intervening in the matter, leaving the decision about Wasserman's future to the LA28 board.
Conclusion
The fallout from the revelations surrounding Casey Wasserman's past interactions with Ghislaine Maxwell continues to evolve, with Mayor Karen Bass's call for his resignation highlighting the tensions between local leadership and the LA28 board. As the 2028 Olympic Games approach, the implications of this controversy may significantly impact the preparations and public perception of the event.
