Epstein sent $75,000 to accounts linked to Mandelson, files suggest

Peter Mandelson, a former British ambassador to Washington and prominent figure in the Labour Party, has resigned from the party amid renewed scrutiny regarding his ties to the late sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. This decision follows the release of US documents suggesting that Mandelson received several payments totaling $75,000 from Epstein in the early 2000s. Mandelson has stated that he has no record or recollection of receiving these sums and questioned the authenticity of the documents. His resignation marks a significant end to a political career that has spanned over three decades. UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer has publicly called for Mandelson's removal from the House of Lords, asserting that he has "let his country down." Starmer expressed his dismay over the revelations in the newly released Epstein files and indicated that the Labour Party is under pressure to address the controversy surrounding Mandelson's associations. Mandelson was previously dismissed from his role as Britain's ambassador to the United States last year due to these connections. In response to the allegations, UK police have announced they will review misconduct claims related to Mandelson's conduct while in public office. This review highlights ongoing concerns about accountability among political figures and their associations with individuals like Epstein, who has been central to numerous scandals involving sexual misconduct and exploitation. Mandelson's resignation occurs amid public outcry and investigations into his past actions, underscoring the implications of his associations within the political landscape.