Hinson Took Cash From Epstein-Linked Billionaires, Records Show
Iowa Republican Senate candidate Ashley Hinson accepted tens of thousands of dollars from billionaires named in the Jeffrey Epstein files, even as she worked to block the release of those same documents. The donations, totaling nearly $100,000 across her campaigns and political action committees, raise fresh questions about her commitment to transparency.
Who Donated to Hinson’s Campaigns?
Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick, Blackstone CEO Stephen Schwarzman, and Apollo Global Management CEO Marc Rowan each contributed to Hinson’s campaigns. Lutnick, whose name appears in the Epstein files 141 times, donated over $12,000. Schwarzman, mentioned 23 times, gave $26,500. Rowan, named 389 times, contributed $7,000. All three men have denied wrongdoing related to Epstein.
What Did Hinson Do to Block the Epstein Files?
Hinson refused to sign a discharge petition by Rep. Thomas Massie that would have forced a House vote on releasing the Epstein files. She said Massie was “approaching this in the wrong way” and that his petition handed leverage to Democrats. The petition ultimately succeeded without her support, and Hinson later voted for the bill.
How Did Iowa Democrats Respond?
Iowa Democratic Party spokesperson Drew Myers accused Hinson of prioritizing wealthy donors over Iowans. “Ashley Hinson is proving she’ll do anything to enrich herself and her wealthy donors at the expense of Iowans,” Myers said. He added that Hinson “fought harder to prevent the release of the Epstein files than she has for the Iowans who are struggling from rising prices.”
What About Other Epstein-Linked Donors?
Other donors named in the files include private equity billionaire Henry Kravis (55 mentions), real estate billionaire John Catsimatidis (70 mentions), and billionaire executive Howard Lorber. None of these men are accused of misconduct. Catsimatidis told Business Insider he met Epstein once and received a bottle of champagne. Kravis and Lorber have not publicly commented.
What Does This Mean for the Iowa Senate Race?
Hinson’s campaign did not respond to requests for comment. The donations come as she runs in a tight Senate race to represent Iowa. The controversy could energize conservative voters who demand transparency and accountability from their elected officials.
This article is based on reporting from The Daily Beast.