Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass has publicly called for Casey Wasserman to resign from his position as chairman of the LA28 Olympic and Paralympic Games organizing committee, escalating pressure on the prominent figure amid scrutiny over his past correspondence with Ghislaine Maxwell. The call for Wasserman’s departure comes after the release of emails from the Epstein files revealed a flirtatious exchange between Wasserman and Maxwell dating back to 2003.
Despite the controversy, the LA28 organizing board last week voiced its support for Wasserman following a review conducted by outside legal counsel. However, Mayor Bass stated her disagreement with the board’s decision, emphasizing the need for leadership that reflects the values of the city and the Olympic movement. The situation presents a challenge for the International Olympic Committee (IOC) as it prepares for the 2028 Games in Los Angeles.
“My opinion is that he should step down,” Bass told CNN’s Dana Bash on Monday. “That’s not the opinion of the board. I reckon that decision was unfortunate. I don’t support the decision.” Bass reiterated that while she lacks the authority to directly remove Wasserman, she believes a change in leadership is necessary. She underscored her commitment to ensuring Los Angeles is fully prepared to host a successful Olympic Games, stating, “However, my job as mayor of Los Angeles is to create sure that our city is completely prepared to have the best Olympics that have ever happened in Olympic history.”
The controversy surrounding Wasserman has extended beyond the political realm, impacting his professional life. Wasserman has begun the process of selling his sports and entertainment agency, reportedly losing clients such as pop star Chappell Roan and former soccer star Abby Wambach in the wake of the revelations, Deadline reported.
IOC Response and Ongoing Concerns
The International Olympic Committee has largely deferred to the LA28 board on the matter, stating It’s within their purview. IOC spokesperson Mark Adams acknowledged the ongoing discussions but refrained from further comment during a press conference in Milan on Tuesday. “I understand You’ll see many conversations happening at this moment but I will not make any further comment,” Adams said, adding, “This is obviously a matter for the board of LA28 still at this stage.” The Associated Press detailed the IOC’s cautious response.
Wasserman’s Statement and Background
Wasserman has expressed regret for his past correspondence with Maxwell, stating that it occurred before her crimes were publicly known. “I deeply regret my correspondence with Ghislaine Maxwell,” Wasserman said in a statement prior to traveling to Milan for the Winter Olympics. He has cooperated with the LA28 board’s review of his contacts with both Maxwell and Jeffrey Epstein. Maxwell was convicted in 2021 on five counts of sex trafficking and abuse of minors and is currently serving a 20-year prison sentence. Epstein’s death in a Fresh York jail cell in 2019 was ruled a suicide after he was indicted on federal sex-trafficking charges.
Wasserman has been a central figure in the Los Angeles Olympic bid since its launch in 2015. His position has been under scrutiny for weeks, even before his arrival in Milan to attend meetings with IOC members and the opening ceremony of the Winter Games. The LA organizing team provided updates on the hosting plan to IOC members, addressing logistical issues such as visa processing for international visitors, but avoided direct questions regarding Wasserman’s personal situation.
Wasserman has not been accused of any criminal wrongdoing in connection with Epstein and Maxwell. However, the revelations have raised ethical concerns and prompted calls for his resignation from prominent figures like Mayor Bass.
The situation highlights the complexities of balancing the need for strong leadership with the importance of upholding ethical standards as Los Angeles prepares to host the 2028 Olympic and Paralympic Games. The coming weeks will likely see continued debate and discussion regarding Wasserman’s future with LA28, as well as the broader implications for the Games’ reputation and success.
What happens next will depend on the LA28 board’s response to Mayor Bass’s public call for Wasserman’s resignation. The board will need to weigh the potential damage to the Games’ image against the value of Wasserman’s experience and leadership. The outcome will undoubtedly shape the narrative surrounding the 2028 Olympics in the years to approach.
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