Steve Bannon texted Jeffrey Epstein about invoking the 25th Amendment, DOJ records show

WASHINGTON, DC: Newly released Justice Department documents show that Steve Bannon told Jeffrey Epstein in late 2018 that Trump was “beyond borderline 25 amendment.” The exchange is part of a series of text messages between the two men that have resurfaced amid renewed scrutiny of Bannon’s past association with Epstein.

The records were made public as part of a broader document disclosure stemming from the federal investigation into Epstein. Bannon, who served as White House chief strategist early in Trump’s first term, has publicly positioned himself as a loyal supporter of the president. 

Text messages draw scrutiny from lawmakers and allies

The text exchange, dated December 31, 2018, shows Epstein writing, “Hell of. Year. Next will be biblicl,” to which Bannon replied, “We either own 2019 or it will surely own us.”

The conversation then turned to discussions with Democrats and political tensions following the 2018 midterm elections. In one message, Epstein wrote, “And no soldiers in the fort. He really is borderline. Not sure what he may do.” Bannon responded, “I think it’s beyond borderline  25 amendment,” referring to the constitutional provision that allows for a president’s removal under certain circumstances.

The messages add to previously disclosed communications between the two men. Justice Department records show that on the same day Epstein was arrested on federal sex trafficking charges in July 2019, he was texting Bannon about a planned documentary project. 

In earlier exchanges from 2019, Bannon advised Epstein: “First we need to push back on the lies... then rebuild your image as a philanthropist.”

The renewed focus on the texts has drawn criticism from both Democrats and Republicans. Rep Marjorie Taylor Greene, a longtime ally of Bannon, addressed the matter publicly. Responding to comments from retired Lt Gen Michael Flynn, she wrote: ” agree completely. Steve Bannon went to jail for Trump (I was there), but back on 1-1-19 (after Dems took the House) he was texting with Epstein about 25th amendment.”

Greene added, “Also, there is no excuse for having such a friendly relationship with Epstein, post conviction, 2018-19,” she added. “None.” Despite the 2018 remarks, Bannon has since voiced strong support for Trump’s political future. In an interview with The Economist last fall, Bannon said, “Trump is going to be president in ’28, and people ought to just get accommodated with that. At the appropriate time, we’ll lay out what the plan is.”

DOJ releases 300-name list tied to Epstein Files

On February 14, Attorney General Pam Bondi released a list of 300 politicians and high-profile individuals whose names were found in Justice Department investigative files related to Jeffrey Epstein.

The Department of Justice (DOJ) highlighted that being included on the list does not imply any criminal activity, direct involvement with Epstein, or any determination of wrongdoing. Some individuals were listed due to email correspondence with Epstein or Ghislaine Maxwell, while others were mentioned in secondary sources like press reports. 

Among those named were Donald Trump, former Presidents Barack Obama and Bill Clinton, Vice President Kamala Harris, and congressional leaders Nancy Pelosi and Hakeem Jeffries. The review also referenced figures from entertainment, business and international institutions.