Newly released documents paint an alarming picture of the relationship between Labour’s Lord Peter Mandelson and the late Jeffrey Epstein. Epstein, a billionaire and convicted sex offender, died by suicide in August 2019 while awaiting trial on sex-trafficking charges. The House Committee on Oversight and Reform has just dropped a new cache of letters. Of these documents, perhaps the most surprising is this one, Mandelson’s description of Epstein as “my best pal.” This revelation has reignited discussions about Mandelson’s ties to Epstein, particularly in light of the multiple allegations surrounding the financier’s criminal activities.
Ghislaine Maxwell, now a convicted sex offender, helped curate the letters. It has shocking photographs of Epstein with Mandelson, as well as beautiful images of some of Epstein’s estates. It includes essays from high-profile thought leaders like former U.S. President Bill Clinton. The release of these documents has raised questions about the nature of their relationship and the implications of associating with someone like Epstein.
In a 2003 missive, Mandelson described Epstein as an “extremely intelligent sharp-witted man,” shedding light on the often conflicted understanding Mandelson has of his close friendship with Epstein. After Epstein’s arrest and death, Mandelson has claimed that he is “ashamed” of having ever known Epstein. In their 2022 civil trial running against the clock, he insisted that he never “met” or was introduced to Epstein by Maxwell. This contradiction is not uncommon when it comes to relationships with controversial figures.
That epicenters at 33 Pictures The recently released birthday book collects not just those loving birthday notes but rich and auditory sensory imagery. Another treasure in the collection is a handwritten note. In it, she displays images of Epstein, at work, playing on a tropical island resort, and even a surrealistic tableau of two women set over an expansive banquet table. These types of images create a damaging breadcrumb trail that leads far away from the reality of Epstein’s illegal activities and subsequent convictions.
It is the implications of including personal reflections and photographs that becomes an ethical question. Each of these questions focuses on the connections we make with those who have done terrible things. The committee’s controversial decision to publish this book raises new questions. It is highly suspicious. Inquiries like this don’t just raise questions about Mandelson, but about other people connected with Epstein in life.
“Once upon a time, an intelligent, sharp-witted man they call ‘mysterious’ parachuted into my life … you would spend many hours just waiting for him to turn up … And often, no sooner were you used to having him around, you would suddenly be alone again … Leaving you with some ‘interesting’ friends to entertain instead … Or just some dogs to keep you company (he wasn’t always so keen on them) … But then he would parachute back in … Very occasionally, taking you by surprise in some far-off places … Or in one of his glorious homes he likes to share with his friends (yum yum) … But wherever he is in the world, he remains my best pal!” – Lord Mandelson
The fallout from Epstein’s actions continues to impact those who were associated with him, prompting ongoing discussions regarding accountability and the consequences of such relationships. As the investigations into Epstein’s powerful network continue, the public embarrassment of figures like Mandelson is very far from enough.