New Files Link Plaskett to Epstein
Newly released documents add fresh detail to an already troubling record. They show repeated contacts between U.S. Virgin Islands Delegate Stacey Plaskett and Jeffrey Epstein. The messages span years. Some are casual. Some are about official business.
In a string of emails from 2014, an Epstein assistant asked Plaskett, “Will you be able to meet with Jeffrey on his island on Monday Aug. 18th at 11 am?” The exchange suggests a planned visit to Epstein’s private island.
The files show follow-ups in later years. Epstein aide Lesley Groff set up a “phone date” between Epstein and Plaskett. In 2016 Groff wrote Plaskett that “Jeffrey has tried for you a few times on your cell but has been unsuccessful” and urged her to call. Five minutes later Plaskett replied, “Thanks. Spoke with him.”
There are messages about fundraising too. The new records show Plaskett contacting Epstein to secure campaign donations in 2017 and 2018. In September 2018 she wrote, “I know you’re tremendously busy. Thanks so much for taking time and sharing ideas and thoughts. I appreciate your support and hope I’m not presumptuous to consider you a friend,” and Epstein replied, “Privileged to be called friend [sic].”
Some texts came at awkward moments. The Washington Post reported that during a February 2019 hearing Epstein texted Plaskett, writing “Great outfit” and “You look great,” and later asked, “Are you chewing[?]” Plaskett responded, “Not any more,” and explained the habit.
One minute after she finished questioning former Trump attorney Michael Cohen at that hearing, Epstein messaged, “Good work.” The files also include a May 13, 2019 exchange where Epstein wished Plaskett a happy birthday; he wrote, “You told me when you were in my office,” and she replied, “You’re good.” Epstein answered, “No I’m bad, but I’m thoughtful.”
Republicans in the House pushed back. Rep. Ralph Norman said in introducing a censure motion, “No one who turns to a convicted predator for input on how to conduct official business, especially in a congressional hearing, should sit on the Intelligence Committee or any committee, for that matter. This is about restoring trust in an institution that desperately needs it,” The censure vote did not pass.
The new documents clearly show a pattern of contact. Questions now center on judgment, oversight, and whether those interactions affected official work. Plaskett has declined public calls for broader action so far. The files add to a record that lawmakers and the public will keep watching closely.