The New Statesman: politics and culture Mandelson and the friends he keeps
Sep 10, 2025
Freddie Hayward, the US correspondent for the New Statesman, shares insight into the controversial release of documents tied to Jeffrey Epstein. He delves into the implications of a birthday book featuring notable figures, including Peter Mandelson and Donald Trump, stirring political tensions. The discussion highlights complex relationships between British ambassadors and Epstein, the fallout in the Labour Party, and the shadow of Epstein that still hangs over political leadership and foreign policy. Join for a deep dive into these messy connections!
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Mandelson In Epstein’s Birthday Book
- Peter Mandelson contributed affectionate, photo-accompanied messages to Jeffrey Epstein's alleged 2003 50th birthday book.
- The book also contains messages from Donald Trump and Bill Clinton, linking high-profile figures to Epstein.
Regret Doesn’t Remove Political Damage
- Mandelson first stayed quiet then gave an interview saying he regrets the association with Epstein.
- Freddie Hayward says this moment is the most politically damaging for Mandelson since arriving in Washington.
Shared Pages Shift The Political Angle
- Trump and Mandelson appear on the same pages of the book, which changes the political dynamic.
- Hayward notes the administration frames the furore as a Democratic hoax, diminishing pressure from Washington.