Calls Mount for Casey Wasserman’s Resignation as Olympics Chair over Maxwell Emails
Calls for Casey Wasserman’s resignation as chair of the LA 2028 Olympics are intensifying following his emergence in emails with convicted sex trafficker Ghislaine Maxwell. Los Angeles County Supervisor Janice Hahn expressed concerns over Wasserman’s leadership amid the ongoing preparations for the upcoming games, highlighting the potential distraction his involvement may create.
Officials Demand Resignation
Supervisor Hahn was joined by other local officials, including Los Angeles City Councilman Hugo Soto-Martinez and State Senator Lena Gonzalez. On Tuesday, Hahn stated that Wasserman’s continued representation of Los Angeles could detract from athletic preparations. Soto-Martinez echoed her sentiments, noting the alarming nature of Wasserman’s past communications with Maxwell, who is known for orchestrating a significant sex-trafficking operation.
Details of the Emails
Recently released documents from the U.S. Department of Justice revealed a series of explicit email exchanges between Wasserman and Maxwell, relating to interactions that occurred around 2003. These exchanges included flirtatious comments, with Wasserman referencing a desire to see Maxwell in provocative attire and Maxwell alluding to offering him a massage.
Context of the Situation
Maxwell, closely associated with the late Jeffrey Epstein, was convicted in 2021 on charges related to sex trafficking. Epstein himself was known for procuring underage girls for wealthy individuals and faced numerous allegations of sexual misconduct. Although Wasserman has never been implicated in Epstein’s criminal activities, his correspondence with Maxwell raises significant concerns among local leaders.
Reactions from Leadership
Amidst his involvement in Milan for the Winter Olympics, Wasserman faced scrutiny regarding the impact of these revelations on the LA Olympics preparations. IOC President Kirsty Coventry dismissed questions about Wasserman’s emails, indicating that the IOC considers the matter closed and focused on the upcoming games.
Public Statement from Wasserman
In response to the backlash, Wasserman expressed regret over his past correspondence with Maxwell. He clarified that these exchanges took place over twenty years ago and emphasized that he never engaged in a personal or business relationship with Epstein. Wasserman’s apology extended to the association with both figures, minimizing its relevance in light of the current Olympic preparations.
Looking Ahead to LA 2028
As Los Angeles gears up to host the 2028 Olympics, local officials remain vigilant about the potential distractions that could arise from Wasserman’s association with Maxwell. The discussions surrounding his resignation continue, suggesting that the focus on a successful event is paramount for all involved.
- Key Figures: Casey Wasserman, Janice Hahn, Hugo Soto-Martinez, Lena Gonzalez
- Significant Dates: Emails dated 2003, Maxwell’s conviction in 2021
- Locations: Los Angeles, Milan, Long Beach
