Steve Bannon Jeffrey Epstein Messages Revealed in DOJ Files Targeting Pope Francis
Newly released documents from the US Department of Justice reveal that former White House adviser Steve Bannon exchanged messages in 2019 with convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein that referenced opposition efforts involving Pope Francis.
The communications, included in a broader document release, show Bannon expressing strong criticism of the late pontiff and discussing political strategies during the period after he left the White House. In one message, Bannon wrote about plans to “take down” Francis, grouping the pope alongside other global political figures he opposed.
Bannon had been a vocal critic of Pope Francis, particularly over the pope’s stance on nationalism and migration. During 2018 and 2019, Bannon worked to promote nationalist-populist movements in Europe, arguing for what he described as a sovereign political vision. The newly released files indicate Epstein was in contact with Bannon during this period.
The messages also reference a 2019 book examining internal tensions within the Catholic Church. According to the documents, Bannon showed interest in turning the publication into a film project and suggested Epstein could be involved in a production role. It remains unclear whether the proposal progressed beyond preliminary discussion.
Additional exchanges in the files show both men sharing articles and commentary related to divisions within the Church and debates surrounding populism.
Pope Francis consistently warned against the fusion of political power and religious authority during his papacy, emphasizing migrant advocacy and criticizing extreme nationalism. Observers note that such positions placed him at odds with several nationalist political movements active at the time.
The document release forms part of broader disclosures related to Epstein’s communications and network prior to his 2019 arrest on federal charges. Epstein had previously been convicted in 2008 for child sex offenses.
The files have renewed scrutiny of Bannon’s political activities and associations during that period. No further official statements have been issued in connection with the newly disclosed messages.
