Controversy Clouds LA28: Mayor Urges Leadership Change

Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass suggested that Casey Wasserman should resign as chairman of the 2028 Olympic organizing committee due to his past interactions with Ghislaine Maxwell. Despite a board review supporting Wasserman, Bass remains focused on ensuring the city's readiness for the Olympics.


Devdiscourse News Desk | Updated: 17-02-2026 09:24 IST | Created: 17-02-2026 09:24 IST
Controversy Clouds LA28: Mayor Urges Leadership Change
Casey Wasserman

Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass has called for Casey Wasserman to step down as chairman of the 2028 Olympic organizing committee. This appeal comes after the revelation of Wasserman's previous email interactions with Ghislaine Maxwell, a convicted associate of Jeffrey Epstein.

Documents released by the U.S. Justice Department indicated exchanges between Wasserman and Maxwell dating back over twenty years. Wasserman, however, has repudiated any direct personal or business ties with Epstein and apologized for knowing Maxwell prior to the exposure of her crimes.

Despite a board investigation deeming his relationship with Maxwell not as impactful as perceived, Bass expressed her disagreement with the board's decision for Wasserman to remain. Meanwhile, the mayor emphasized her commitment to ensuring Los Angeles successfully hosts the 2028 Olympics.

(With inputs from agencies.)

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