WATCH: Les Wexner's full deposition to House Democrats on the Epstein files
#Les Wexner#Jeffrey Epstein#House Democrats#Deposition#Justice Department#Victoria’s Secret#Abercrombie & Fitch#Sexual abuse#Republican ranking member James Comer#California Democrat Robert Garcia#Virginia Giuffre
📌 Key Takeaways
Les Wexner testified before a House committee on February 19, 2026.
The deposition followed new DOJ documents shedding light on his relationship with Jeffrey Epstein.
Wexner denied knowledge of Epstein’s criminal acts and claimed to be a philanthropist.
He argued that mentions of his name in the files do not imply guilt and that his ties to Epstein were severed in 2007.
The testimony was delivered under a congressional subpoena, triggered by political and legal scrutiny.
📖 Full Retelling
Les Wexner, the billionaire behind retail giants Victoria’s Secret and Abercrombie & Fitch, gave a full deposition to members of the House of Representatives on Wednesday, February 19, 2026, explaining his longstanding relationship with convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. The testimony was prompted by a subpoena issued by a Democratic-led House committee following the Justice Department’s release of new Epstein‑related documents, which revealed fresh details about Wexner’s ties to the financier. During the six‑hour proceeding, Wexner denied any knowledge of Epstein’s sex‑crime activities and declared himself a philanthropist committed to ethical conduct. He used the hearing to contest what he described as “outrageous untrue statements” and to distance himself from speculation that may impact his reputation and business legacy.
🏷️ Themes
Corporate accountability, Sexual abuse investigation, Political scrutiny of wealthy figures, Legislative response to justice department findings, Public perception versus legal status
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Deep Analysis
Why It Matters
Les Wexner, billionaire behind major retail brands, testified before House Democrats about his ties to Jeffrey Epstein, raising questions about financial and personal connections. The deposition could influence ongoing investigations and public perception of corporate accountability.
Context & Background
Wexner was close friend and financial adviser to Epstein
He was subpoenaed after DOJ released new documents
He denied knowledge of Epstein's crimes
His relationship ended in 2007 after discovering theft
He has never been charged
What Happens Next
The committee may issue a report summarizing findings, and prosecutors could review evidence for potential charges. Public scrutiny of Wexner's business practices may intensify, affecting brand reputation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Was Les Wexner charged with a crime?
No, he has never been charged.
How many times is his name mentioned in Epstein files?
Over 1,000 times, but that does not imply guilt.
What was the outcome of the deposition?
He answered all questions and said he was eager to set the record straight.
What did the committee decide?
No decision yet; they will review and possibly release a report.
Original Source
By — Associated Press Associated Press Leave your feedback Share Copy URL Email Facebook Twitter LinkedIn Pinterest Tumblr Share on Facebook Share on Twitter WATCH: Les Wexner's full deposition to House Democrats on the Epstein files Nation Feb 19, 2026 8:33 PM EST The billionaire behind the retail empire that once blanketed shopping malls with names such as Victoria's Secret and Abercrombie & Fitch told members of Congress on Wednesday that he was "duped by a world-class con man" — close financial adviser Jeffrey Epstein. Watch Les Wexner's full deposition in the video player above. Les Wexner also denied knowing about the late sex offender's crimes or participating in Epstein's abuse of girls and young women. The panel's Democrats had subpoenaed him after the latest Justice Department release of Epstein-related documents revealed new details about Wexner's relationship with the well-connected financier. WATCH: Les Wexner deposition on Epstein files raises more questions than answers, Democrats say Ranking member Rep. James Comer, a Kentucky Republican, said Wexner "answered every question asked of him" during the 6-hour proceeding. Wexner described himself to the lawmakers as a philanthropist, community builder and grandfather who always strove "to live my life in an ethical manner in line with my moral compass," according to a statement he submitted to the committee. He said he was eager "to set the record straight" about his ties with Epstein. Their relation ended bitterly in 2007, after the Wexners discovered he'd been stealing from them. As one of Epstein's most prominent former friends, Wexner has spent years answering for their decades-long association and he sought to use the proceeding to dispel what he called "outrageous untrue statements and hurtful rumor, innuendo, and speculation" that have shadowed him. Rep. Robert Garcia, a California Democrat who sat in on Wednesday's interview, expressed skepticism in comments to reporters gathered near the proceed...
