Governor Mike DeWine defends Les Wexner – Says Les Wexner Name Should Remain on OSU Buildings
COLUMBUS, Ohio — Ohio Governor Mike DeWine said Ohio State University should not remove businessman Les Wexner’s name from campus buildings, stating there is no evidence that Wexner was involved in sexual misconduct with associate Jeffrey Epstein.
DeWine made the remarks Thursday during Politico’s 2026 Governors Summit, held as part of the National Governors Association’s Winter Meeting in Washington, D.C. His comments come ahead of the opening of a new building at the OSU Wexner Medical Center.
“There is no evidence that I am aware of that he has done anything wrong,” DeWine said in response to a question about Wexner’s name on university buildings.
The new 26-story inpatient tower at the Wexner Medical Center is expected to welcome patients on Sunday. Featuring 24 operating rooms and 820 private rooms, the $1 billion facility is among the most advanced in the hospital system.
Wexner, who previously donated $100 million to OSU in 2011, has had his name on the medical center for 16 years. He also chairs the center’s board. His name appears on the Wexner Center for the Arts, a campus hub for contemporary arts and culture.
The Columbus-based entrepreneur founded L Brands Inc., which once owned major retail chains including Victoria’s Secret, Bath & Body Works, and The Limited. Wexner is now retired and serves as chairman emeritus of the company.
Wexner’s connection to Epstein dates back to the mid-1980s, when the financier became Wexner’s personal financial advisor and held power of attorney. Wexner has said he severed ties after learning Epstein misappropriated funds. Epstein pleaded guilty to soliciting prostitution from a minor in 2008 and died by suicide in 2019 while awaiting trial on federal sex trafficking charges.
In a recent written statement to the House Committee on Oversight and Government, Wexner said, “He was a con man. And while I was conned, I have done nothing wrong and have nothing to hide.”
DeWine noted that, without evidence linking Wexner to any criminal acts, removing his name would be inappropriate. He acknowledged Wexner’s contributions to the community and the medical center, adding, “Barring some new information of something illegal, I don’t see a problem.”
However, not everyone agrees. OSU’s nurse union has called for Wexner’s name to be removed.
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