Newly released Justice Department files are shining an uncomfortable spotlight on former Trump strategist Steve Bannon’s private communications with convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein — and the contents are raising serious questions about Bannon’s role during the Trump years.
The documents, which include text messages and emails from late 2017 through Epstein’s arrest in July 2019, show that Bannon maintained a close and often supportive relationship with Epstein long after Epstein’s 2008 conviction for soliciting a minor for prostitution. According to the files, the two men discussed legal strategy, media messaging, and even political matters involving President Donald Trump. Nothing says “bad judgment” quite like teaming up with one of the most infamous criminals in modern history.
One of the most explosive exchanges occurred on New Year’s Eve 2018, after Democrats took control of the House. In the messages, Bannon complained that the “WH” had “zero plan to punch back” amid political pressure. Epstein replied about Trump, saying, “He is really borderline. Not sure what he may do.” Bannon responded bluntly: “I think it’s beyond borderline — 25 amendment,” referring to the constitutional process used to remove a sitting president. In another message, Bannon added, “We really need an intervention” regarding Trump.
The release of these messages triggered backlash from conservatives. Former national security adviser Michael Flynn said that if “Bannon AND Epstein were behind it,” then Bannon should be questioned. Even Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene said there was “no excuse” for having such a friendly relationship with Epstein after his conviction.
Bannon has not directly addressed the 25th Amendment texts but has defended his communications with Epstein as part of a documentary project. In a statement to The New York Times, Bannon said he was acting as a filmmaker trying to secure long interviews with a controversial subject. The files, however, depict a relationship that went far beyond arranging interviews.
After meeting in late 2017, reportedly through author Michael Wolff, the two developed what Epstein described as a friendship. “We have become friends,” Epstein wrote in February 2018. Wolff later credited Bannon as a major source for his book Fire and Fury, which fueled early public discussion about whether Trump could be removed from office.
As Epstein’s legal problems intensified in 2019 following reporting by The Miami Herald, Bannon’s messages shifted toward crisis management. In April 2019, he advised Epstein: “First we need to push back on the lies; then crush the pedo/trafficking narrative; then rebuild your image as philanthropist.” In another message, Bannon warned that the narrative of Epstein as a trafficker “can’t be redeemed.”
When Epstein asked whether he should respond publicly to renewed scrutiny, Bannon reacted sharply: “Have you lost your f****** mind.” He warned that any comment would make the story explode globally. The files also show Bannon recommending lawyers, arranging “media training,” and coordinating travel and meetings at Epstein’s Manhattan townhouse and Paris apartment. Epstein even offered to pay Bannon’s medical expenses and sent gifts, including Apple watches.
The communications continued until July 2019, when Epstein returned from Paris and was arrested in New Jersey. “All canceled,” Epstein texted Bannon in what would be their final exchange.
These newly disclosed messages place Bannon at the center of two volatile Trump-era controversies: internal discussions about the president’s fitness for office and the web of relationships surrounding Epstein. While Bannon insists his actions were journalistic, the tone and substance of the messages suggest a far more cooperative relationship.
For Americans who stood by President Trump through years of politically driven investigations, these revelations reinforce an important truth: Trump wasn’t betrayed by outside enemies alone — but by people inside his own orbit who played dangerous games behind closed doors. The good news is that the truth keeps coming out, and with it, the chance to finally separate real loyalty from fake allies and move forward stronger than ever.
