Documents Reveal Noam Chomsky’s Close Ties With Jeffrey Epstein, Sparking Backlash From the Left
Recently released documents by U.S. authorities have revealed that renowned linguist and political thinker Noam Chomsky maintained a close and supportive relationship with disgraced financier and convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein for several years. The correspondence continued well after Epstein’s 2008 conviction for soliciting a minor and has shocked many of Chomsky’s longtime allies on the left.
The records show Chomsky describing his interactions with Epstein as a “most valuable experience” and even offering advice on how Epstein should deal with public criticism over his criminal conduct.
Evidence of a long-standing relationship
Central to the revelations is an undated letter of support for Epstein, attributed to Chomsky and addressed “to whom it may concern.” In the letter, Chomsky states that he and Epstein had been in regular contact for about six years and held lengthy discussions on a wide range of topics.
Chomsky praises Epstein’s intellect and international connections, recounting how Epstein once contacted a Norwegian diplomat during a conversation about the Oslo Accords and helped arrange a meeting for Chomsky with former Israeli prime minister Ehud Barak.
Additional emails reveal a friendly and informal relationship. Chomsky’s wife, Valeria, is seen apologizing for missing Epstein’s birthday, while Epstein offered Chomsky the use of his apartments in New York and New Mexico.
Strong reaction from progressive figures
The disclosures have triggered sharp criticism from within progressive and left-wing circles. Among the most vocal critics is historian Vijay Prashad, who co-authored two books with Chomsky in recent years.
In a public statement, Prashad said he was “disgusted” and “heartsick,” adding that there was “no defence for this.” He pointed to what he described as a deep contradiction in Chomsky’s actions, noting that Chomsky had previously dismissed the idea of meeting figures such as Henry Kissinger, yet accepted introductions to Ehud Barak through Epstein. Barak, a former Israeli leader, has been linked to military operations in Gaza.
Other left-wing commentators have also condemned the relationship. Journalist Matt Kennard described Chomsky’s association with Epstein as “unforgivable.”
Advice given amid sex-trafficking allegations
One of the most controversial revelations is a 2019 communication in which Chomsky reportedly advised Epstein on how to respond to mounting sex-trafficking allegations. According to the documents, Chomsky suggested that Epstein ignore the growing scandal and referred to the accusations as part of what he called “the hysteria that has developed about abuse of women.”
Chomsky, now 97, has not responded to the disclosures. He is reportedly recovering from a stroke suffered in 2024. His wife and spokesperson have also not replied to requests to confirm the authenticity of the published communications.
The revelations have raised fresh questions about the judgment of one of the world’s most influential public intellectuals and have deepened unease among his supporters on the left.
