In August 2018, convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein acted as an unofficial advisor to Steve Bannon, a former Trump official and prominent MAGA figure, during a media campaign to support Trump and advance Bannon’s own media projects. Text messages made public by the House oversight committee reveal a six-day exchange between the two from August 17 to 23, showing Epstein guiding Bannon on TV appearances and political strategy.
The messages from an account linked to Epstein’s email address are paired with redacted responses, but context—such as mentions of Fox News, Bannon’s 2017 White House dismissal, and his work on the documentary “Trump @War”—confirms Bannon as the other participant. It’s unclear if the released texts are part of a longer conversation. Bannon did not respond to the Guardian’s requests for comment. Earlier this year, when Elon Musk referenced Bannon in connection to Epstein’s files, Bannon told the Independent he wanted a special investigator to review all Epstein-related documents.
The exchanges highlight Bannon’s ongoing support for Trump a year after his contentious exit from the White House and detail Epstein’s involvement in shaping messages on tax cuts, immigration, and security clearances. They also capture their reactions to unfolding scandals, such as when Bannon texted “Huge event huge” upon learning that National Enquirer publisher David Pecker had received immunity in the Michael Cohen case, adding, “More women payoffs coming.”
The conversation starts with Epstein giving immediate feedback on a live media interview by Bannon. While the specific show isn’t named, YouTube records indicate Bannon was interviewed by Ari Melber on MSNBC on August 17. Epstein, who watched live, asked, “How did it go?” and mentioned adjusting his schedule to tune in. Bannon replied that the interview ran an hour instead of 30 minutes and was being broadcast across multiple platforms, to which Epstein responded, “atta boy.”
Their banter continued, with Epstein joking that Bannon looked “so clean cut” next to the host he thought he’d “turned on the figure skating channel by accident.” Bannon quipped back with “My ‘come hither’ look,” and Epstein retorted, “Better than the usual ‘come hitler’ look.” Bannon, known for his influence on far-right populism, replied, “Ouch.” When Bannon noted he prepared carefully to appear “‘clean’ not sloppy” for what he called the “‘soy boy’ network,” Epstein teased, “Closer to toy boy ;).”
Epstein then offered more detailed feedback on Bannon’s performance and presentation, praising the “last ten minutes” as “more the real you” and advising on camera angles and lighting. He also actively helped develop talking points, especially on economic policy, crafting arguments to defend Trump’s tax cuts. Epstein argued that criticism about tax cuts benefiting the wealthy was misleading, emphasizing corporate benefits and wage inflation.
Additionally, Epstein expressed frustration to Bannon about people turning against him amid a growing scandal over his past activities.On August 22, he wrote: “FYI, there’s a guy who’s completely crazy, out of jail after 20 years, sending letters about me to all agencies, stalking, etc. He wants a billion dollars. No real threat, just another headache.”
He added: “Steven Hoffenberg. He bought the NY Daily News for one dollar, etc.”
Steven Hoffenberg was imprisoned in 1998 for his role in a $500 million Ponzi scheme—one of the largest in U.S. history. According to Hoffenberg’s reported claims and legal documents, Epstein was also involved in the scheme. In August 2022, Hoffenberg was found dead in his Connecticut apartment at age 77.
The messages show Bannon and Epstein discussing MAGA figures like Thiel and Anthony Scaramucci, Trump’s short-lived communications director.
On August 18, Epstein wrote: “Message: I’m back Wednesday. (Thiel coming).”
Three days later, he outlined priorities for Bannon: “1. Peter Thiel in town… 4. The Mooch [Scaramucci] (still in contact with Ivanka) has reached out to me and asked how he can re-engage with you. ?? I’ve only met him once. Odd.”
The messages also capture their reactions to developments in the Michael Cohen case. When news broke on August 23, 2018, that National Enquirer publisher David Pecker had received immunity, both immediately recognized its importance.
Epstein texted: “Pecker immunity one more drop.”
Bannon replied: “Huge event huge.” He added: “More women payoffs coming.”
Elsewhere, the two seem to try hiding their collaboration from scrutiny.
On August 23, Epstein wrote: “BTW, I’m in New York tonight through Saturday if you want to visit under the cover of darkness or have breakfast tomorrow if you like.”
Bannon responded: “Do you have access that’s not the front door? They have 24/7 surveillance on you.”
Epstein replied, “I’m happy to come see you if better,” adding: “Message: separate from the process server that left yesterday or the early morning doorman next door. Any idea who?”
Bannon answered: “Don’t know but real folks costing a lot of coin.”
Epstein continued: “Can meet at 301 East 66 if you prefer. I will send apartment #.” (Epstein owned an apartment on East 66th Street in Manhattan.)
Bannon responded: “I don’t like the Regency as it is totally wired.”
In a series of messages, Epstein tried to accommodate Bannon’s apparent desire for secrecy, writing: “There is also a rear entrance on 67 if you prefer”; “Super secure”; and “Someone can meet you and take you in.”
Bannon, seemingly satisfied, replied: “Just set a time. I’ll be in after 4:30.”
Frequently Asked Questions
Of course Here is a list of FAQs about Jeffrey Epsteins advice to Steve Bannon in 2018 written in a clear and natural tone
BeginnerLevel Questions
1 What is this story about
In 2018 while facing various allegations financier and convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein offered strategic advice to Steve Bannon a former political strategist for Donald Trump for a media campaign intended to support the president
2 Who is Jeffrey Epstein
Jeffrey Epstein was a wealthy financier who was convicted in 2008 for sex crimes involving a minor At the time of this event in 2018 he was under investigation for further serious sex trafficking charges He died in jail in 2019 with his death ruled a suicide
3 Who is Steve Bannon
Steve Bannon is a political strategist and media executive who served as the chief executive of Donald Trumps 2016 presidential campaign and later as a White House strategist
4 What kind of advice did Epstein give
According to reports Epstein advised Bannon on how to manage media narratives and public perception to counter negative stories and bolster support for President Trump
5 Why is this connection significant
Its significant because it links a key political figure to a convicted sex offender who was at the time under federal investigation for horrific crimes raising ethical and political questions
Advanced Detailed Questions
6 What was the specific context of this interaction in 2018
In 2018 Donald Trump and his administration were facing intense scrutiny from the ongoing Mueller investigation and various media controversies Epstein reportedly saw an opportunity to influence the political landscape by offering his counsel
7 What was the nature of the proposed media campaign
While full details arent public it was described as an effort to discredit Trumps critics and promote a positive image of his presidency through specific media channels and messaging strategies
8 Did Steve Bannon actually use Epsteins advice
There is no public evidence confirming that Bannon implemented any of Epsteins specific suggestions The interaction was an offer of advice not necessarily a plan that was executed
9 Where was this information reported
This information was first reported by major news outlets like
