Calls for Casey Wasserman’s Resignation as Olympics Chair Amid Maxwell Email Scandal
Calls for Casey Wasserman’s resignation as chair of the LA 2028 Olympics committee have intensified amid revelations of his past communications with Ghislaine Maxwell, a convicted sex trafficker. Local officials, including Los Angeles County Supervisor Janice Hahn and City Councilman Hugo Soto-Martinez, are urging Wasserman to step down due to the distracting nature of these associations.
Background of the Scandal
Ghislaine Maxwell was convicted in 2021 for her involvement in a sex trafficking operation linked to the late financier Jeffrey Epstein. Recent document releases from the U.S. Department of Justice revealed explicit emails between Wasserman and Maxwell from 2003, highlighting a questionable connection that has sparked public outrage.
Official Reactions
Supervisor Hahn emphasized the need for a representative who embodies the values of Los Angeles as the city prepares for the Olympics. “Having him represent us on the world stage distracts focus from our athletes,” she stated. Soto-Martinez conveyed similar sentiments, pointing out the disturbing timing of Wasserman’s interaction with Maxwell during her trafficking operations.
California State Senator Lena Gonzalez also joined the chorus calling for Wasserman’s resignation, raising concerns about the implications of his emails for the Olympics.
Impact on the Olympics
Los Angeles is set to host the majority of Olympic events in 2028, with Long Beach featuring prominently as well. Amid these preparations, the emergence of Wasserman’s correspondence with Maxwell has raised alarms over the integrity of the event’s leadership.
Wasserman himself has responded to the situation, expressing regret over his past correspondence and asserting he never had a personal relationship with Epstein. He described his previous communications with Maxwell as regrettable and a reflection of a time before her criminal activities were exposed.
Current Developments
While Wasserman is currently attending the Winter Olympics in Milan, officials within the International Olympic Committee (IOC) have downplayed the seriousness of the matter. IOC President Kirsty Coventry indicated that the organization is focused on the upcoming games and considers the issue closed following Wasserman’s statement.
Despite the attempts to mitigate the situation, local officials have expressed that the context of Wasserman’s emails raises concerns. As the Olympic countdown continues, the spotlight remains on Wasserman and the implications of his past associations.
