How Wexner Helped Shape Modern Columbus
For decades, Leslie Wexner stood as one of Ohio’s most powerful business leaders. As the founder of L Brands, which once included major retailers like Abercrombie & Fitch and Victoria’s Secret, Wexner built a retail empire that reshaped Columbus and surrounding communities.
In the early 1990s, Wexner deepened his political involvement by backing Republican candidate George Voinovich in his successful run for governor. That support strengthened Wexner’s ties within state leadership and helped open doors that had once been closed to him.
With state backed infrastructure projects, including a major highway interchange, Wexner moved forward with large scale developments. One of his biggest projects was Easton Town Center, a high end shopping destination near Columbus that became a regional landmark.
At the same time, he transformed New Albany from a small rural village into a polished suburb. His development firm played a central role in shaping the community’s layout, housing style, and commercial growth. Today, New Albany is home to corporate facilities, including a data center owned by Meta Platforms and a major semiconductor project led by Intel.
Wexner also gave heavily to education, health care, and Jewish causes. His name appears on facilities at Ohio State University, reflecting years of philanthropy and civic engagement.
Epstein Ties Cast a Long Shadow
That reputation now faces serious pressure because of Wexner’s past association with Jeffrey Epstein.
Wexner has acknowledged that he met Epstein in the 1980s and later hired him to manage his finances. He says he cut ties in 2007 after learning of allegations that Epstein had abused minors. In public statements, Wexner has described himself as misled and insists he had no knowledge of Epstein’s crimes.
Still, scrutiny has intensified. Congressional investigators recently sought testimony from Wexner as part of a broader review of Epstein related records. Newly released federal documents have mentioned him in connection with past inquiries, though his legal representatives maintain he was never charged and was told he was not a target.
Epstein’s past role in Wexner’s business operations, including involvement in New Albany development efforts, has renewed questions in Ohio. Critics argue that even indirect ties have damaged public trust.
Political Fallout Across Ohio
The controversy has also affected Ohio politics. Over the years, Wexner donated millions to candidates from both parties. Now, several politicians are returning or redirecting his contributions to charities that support victims of abuse and trafficking.
Others have chosen to keep the donations, arguing they were lawful and unsolicited. The issue has surfaced in campaign debates, especially in closely watched statewide races.
Wexner, now 88, stepped down from leadership roles at his companies in recent years. He also left key civic posts in Columbus. Once seen as one of the city’s leading power brokers, he now keeps a much lower public profile.
A Complicated Legacy
For many in Columbus, Wexner’s legacy is mixed. On one hand, he helped modernize the region’s economy and elevate its national profile. On the other, his association with Epstein continues to cloud how that legacy will be remembered.
Some community leaders say it is difficult to reconcile decades of civic investment with unanswered questions about his past connections. Others worry that ongoing disclosures could further tarnish both Wexner and the city he helped shape.
What remains clear is that his influence on Ohio is lasting. Whether that influence is ultimately defined by development and philanthropy or by scandal may depend on what more comes to light.
