Newly disclosed correspondence from the U.S. Justice Department reveals that convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein took a keen interest in former federal judge Brett Kavanaugh’s 2018 Supreme Court confirmation process. The documents show Epstein not only tracked the high-stakes hearing but also voiced strong support for Kavanaugh and criticized how Republicans handled testimony from Dr. Christine Blasey Ford, who accused Kavanaugh of sexual assault. The disclosures have reignited debate about political influence and ethical boundaries in judicial confirmations.
Epstein’s Unusual Engagement in 2018 Confirmation Battle
Emails and text messages released under a Department of Justice disclosure initiative indicate Epstein was deeply engaged with developments in Kavanaugh’s confirmation hearings. According to the files, Epstein believed accusations against Kavanaugh could jeopardize his nomination and urged more aggressive questioning of Ford — a psychology professor whose testimony before the Senate Judiciary Committee was widely televised and contested.
In one message dated September 22, 2018, Epstein wrote cryptically about having “sat in Kavanaugh chair,” hinting at a personal attachment to the outcome of the confirmation. Although the precise meaning of these comments remains unclear, the engagement underscores Epstein’s fascination with the political drama surrounding the Supreme Court appointment.
Criticism of GOP Strategy and Broader Fallout
Epstein did not shy away from criticizing the Republican approach to the hearing. He described the selection of prosecutor Rachel Mitchell — a female attorney appointed to lead questioning — as a strategic mistake and offered pointed suggestions for lines of inquiry that might have undermined Ford’s assertions.
Legal observers and advocacy groups have harshly criticised the revelations, calling it “appalling” that a notorious sex offender offered tactical advice in a confirmation process centered on sexual assault allegations. These reactions highlight ongoing concerns over how powerful individuals may attempt to shape key judicial decisions outside of public scrutiny.
While there is no evidence Kavanaugh ever met Epstein, the messages show Epstein was in contact with Kenneth Starr — Kavanaugh’s former mentor — who played a role in both the Clinton investigation and in securing Epstein’s controversial 2008 plea deal.
