Secret 25th Amendment Crisis: Steve Bannon and Jeffrey Epstein’s Secret Texts Detail Trump Removal Plans

Newly released Justice Department files have exposed secret communications between former Donald Trump strategist Steve Bannon and convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, revealing discussions about invoking the 25th Amendment to remove then-President Trump and efforts by Bannon to advise Epstein during his legal struggles.

The documents include text messages and emails spanning from late 2017 through Epstein’s arrest in July 2019, showing that Bannon—described as a prominent figure in the MAGA movement and former White House chief strategist—maintained a close and supportive relationship with Epstein long after his 2008 conviction for soliciting a minor.

One of the most explosive exchanges occurred on New Year’s Eve 2018, shortly after Democrats regained control of the House of Representatives. In the messages, Bannon stated that “the WH” (widely understood to mean the White House) had “zero plan to punch back” amid mounting political pressure. Epstein responded: “He is really borderline. Not sure what he may do.”

Bannon replied: “I think it’s beyond borderline — 25 amendment,” referring to the constitutional provision that allows the vice president and a majority of the Cabinet to remove a president deemed unfit for office. In another message, Bannon wrote: “We really need an intervention” regarding Trump.

The disclosure has drawn criticism from conservative figures. Former national security adviser Michael Flynn stated on social media that if “Bannon AND Epstein were behind it, Bannon needs to be brought in for questioning.” Similarly, former Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene (R-Ga.) wrote there was “no excuse for having such a friendly relationship with Epstein, post conviction.”

Bannon has defended his communications as part of a documentary project. In a written statement, he said: “I am a filmmaker and TV host with decades of experience interviewing controversial figures. That’s the only lens through which these private communications should be viewed — a documentary filmmaker working to secure 50 hours of interviews from a reclusive subject.”

The files depict a relationship far beyond casual interviews. After meeting in late 2017—reportedly introduced by author Michael Wolff—the two men developed what Epstein described as friendship, writing in February 2018: “We have become friends.”

Wolff’s book Fire and Fury, which portrayed Trump’s White House challenges, fueled early public debates about the 25th Amendment. Bannon was widely reported to be a key source for the book and later involved in calls for Trump’s removal.

As Epstein faced escalating legal scrutiny in early 2019, the tone of Bannon’s messages shifted toward crisis management. In April 2019, he texted: “First we need to push back on the lies; then crush the pedo/trafficking narrative; then rebuild your image as philanthropist.”

Bannon also emphasized reputational stakes: “We must counter ‘rapist who traffics in female children to be raped by worlds most powerful, richest men’ — that can’t be redeemed.” When news broke in February 2019 about federal prosecutors reviewing Epstein’s 2008 plea deal, Epstein asked Bannon whether he should publicly respond.

Bannon reacted sharply: “Have you lost your f mind? The moment you say ANYTHING, this is global story1!”

The documents show Bannon advising Epstein on legal and public relations strategy, including recommending attorneys such as William A. Burck and Alex Spiro—both of whom stated they did not represent Epstein. Bannon also arranged “media training” sessions, noting in one April 2019 text: “Friday afternoon media training @ your place — 2 camera shoot; my crew so totally confidential.” Epstein replied: “Trial by fire.”

The exchanges included logistical discussions about travel and meetings at Epstein’s Manhattan townhouse and Paris apartment. In March 2019, Bannon texted from Rome: “Is it possible to get your plane here to collect me?” Epstein responded that the plane was unavailable but offered to pay for a charter flight. Days later, Bannon wrote: “I’m staying with you tonight??” Epstein replied: “Yes stay.”

Epstein also offered to cover Bannon’s medical expenses and sent him Apple watches. Bannon’s spokesman stated he did not fly on Epstein’s jet or use his doctor. In email correspondence cited in the files, Epstein commented about Bannon’s financial backers: “Someone has to fund his nonsenses,” referring to Bannon’s alliance with Chinese billionaire Guo Wengui.

Despite Epstein’s legal jeopardy, communications continued until July 2019. The two had planned to meet after Epstein returned from Paris, but he was arrested upon landing in New Jersey. Epstein texted: “All canceled.” It was his final message to Bannon.

The newly disclosed messages place Bannon at the center of critical discussions about presidential fitness and Epstein’s network during the Trump era.