Clive Palmer Denies Bannon Directed His 2019 Election Ad Blitz After Epstein Files Revelations
Billionaire says texts in Epstein documents were former Trump strategist trying to claim credit for advertising strategy
Palmer said he only ever spoke with Bannon in one brief, unexpected late-night phone call, during which the former Trump adviser mistook him for a potential donor. The billionaire categorically denied any communication with convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein.
The denials come after texts published as part of the Epstein files appeared to show Bannon taking credit for advising on Palmer's massive advertising spend during the 2019 campaign. Palmer's United Australia Party spent an estimated $80 million on advertising in the lead-up to the election, making it one of the most expensive political advertising campaigns in Australian history.
Palmer suggested Bannon was motivated by a desire to "increase his own influence" by claiming involvement in the Australian campaign. The texts had been revealed as part of the broader tranche of Epstein-related documents that have sent shockwaves through political establishments globally.
The revelations add another layer to the ongoing fallout from the Epstein files, which have already prompted investigations in the UK and raised questions about political connections across multiple countries.
Analysis
Why This Matters
The intersection of the Epstein files with Australian politics raises questions about international political influence networks. Whether Bannon genuinely advised Palmer or merely claimed credit, the existence of these communications in the Epstein files demands scrutiny.
Background
Palmer spent an unprecedented amount on political advertising in 2019. While his party won zero seats, the campaign was widely credited with shifting preferences away from Labor in key marginal seats, contributing to the Coalition's surprise victory.
Key Perspectives
Palmer insists the contact was trivial and that Bannon exaggerated his role. Critics argue the mere existence of these communications warrants further investigation into foreign political influence in Australian elections.
What to Watch
Whether Australian authorities investigate the Bannon-Palmer connection further, and whether additional Australian figures appear in the Epstein files as more documents are released.