House Democrat: ‘Very hard to believe’ Wexner testimony
The Hill
by Max RegoFebruary 19, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
Rep. Yassamin Ansari (D-Ariz.), a member of the House Oversight and Government Reform Committee, expressed skepticism about billionaire Les Wexner’s credibility during his testimony regarding his ties to convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. Speaking with Kaitlan Collins on CNN’s *The Source*, Ansari questioned whether Wexner’s financial influence could impact his connections to Epstein, raising doubts about the authenticity of his accounts. Her comments reflect broader concerns within the committee about the transparency and reliability of wealthy individuals tied to high-profile scandals.
Wexner testified before the committee about his past interactions with Epstein, including their business relationships and social circles. Ansari pointed out that Wexner’s wealth and influence may have created a “blind spot” when it comes to understanding his connections to Epstein. She also highlighted the need for accountability in cases involving powerful individuals who have historically wielded significant influence. This line of questioning underscores the committee’s focus on examining how Epstein’s network operated and whether it influenced key figures in politics, business, and law.
The deposition has sparked broader conversations about the role of money and power in shaping relationships and decision-making within elite circles. Ansari’s doubts about Wexner’s testimony align with growing public interest in understanding how individuals like Epstein gained access to influential networks and whether those connections were exploited for personal gain or malicious purposes. Her remarks also emphasize the importance of holding powerful figures accountable, particularly when their actions have far-reaching consequences.
This scrutiny highlights the ongoing efforts by Congress to shed light on Epstein’s sprawling empire and its impact on victims and institutions alike. Ansari’s comments reflect a broader political conversation about the need for transparency and accountability in high-profile cases involving wealth, power, and misconduct. As the investigation continues, questions about Wexner’s credibility and the extent of his ties to Epstein will likely remain central to the discussion.
Ultimately, Ansari’s doubts signal that the committee is taking a critical approach to examining testimony from individuals with potential conflicts of interest or deep connections to Epstein’s network. Her statements not only challenge Wexner’s credibility but also reinforce the importance of thorough investigation and public accountability in cases involving powerful figures tied to serious crimes. This matters to readers interested in politics because it highlights the ongoing efforts to address issues of power, influence, and misconduct within elite circles.
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Originally published on The Hill on 2/19/2026