By Paul Waldmiller
Did you know that former Florida Governor, Charlie Crist hasdenied ever speaking with Jeffrey Epstein, despite newly released documents suggesting otherwise?
According to U.S. Justice Department files made public in early this month, February 2026, Epstein claimed in an undated transcript that he had a conversation with Crist about seeking a pardon in late 2010, shortly before Crist left office.
Epstein accounts include details such as Crist allegedly contacting former Palm Beach County State Attorney Barry Krischer about the case and discussing the political sensitivity of granting clemency. Epstein also said he was seeking the pardon to “get rid of my sex offender status” and mentioned lobbying efforts involved with then, New Mexico Governor Bill Richardson.
Former Governor Christ denies ever communicating with Jeffrey Epstein, stating, “I never talked to him. Why would I?” He acknowledged that Epstein or his team may have contacted his office—a routine part of the clemency process—but emphasized there was no direct communication. Crist also said he had no recollection of speaking with Richardson about Epstein.
Supporting evidence however includes emails from 2010 showing Epstein’s assistant, Lesley Groff, expecting a call between Epstein and Crist on December 3, and Richardson’s aide confirming plans for Richardson to speak with Crist on December 27. However, no records confirm these calls actually took place, and both Krischer and Richardson have denied involvement, with Krischer calling Epstein’s attributed quotes “ludicrous.”
The claims emerged as part of over three million pages released under the bipartisan Epstein Files Transparency Act, signed by President Donald Trump in November 2025. Crist, who is considering a run for mayor of St. Petersburg, faces renewed scrutiny amid these revelations.
We need someone better than Charlie.