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A Republican candidate for Texas comptroller has been identified as the buyer of Jeffrey Epstein’s infamous Zorro Ranch in New Mexico. Don Huffines, a self-proclaimed “MAGA Trump Republican,” has come under scrutiny following revelations that he is the owner of the property where Epstein allegedly committed numerous abuses. This connection raises questions about the implications of Epstein’s legacy in the political landscape.
Details of the Property Acquisition
According to records obtained by The Santa Fe New Mexican, 67-year-old Huffines purchased the estate, which includes a sprawling 26,700 square foot mansion, in 2023. The property had initially been put on the market in July 2021, shortly after Epstein’s death in a New York jail in 2019. At the time of its sale, the ranch was listed with a price tag of $27.5 million but sold for an undisclosed amount to an entity named San Rafael Ranch LLC, which has been traced back to Huffines through public records.
Tax assessments valued the property at $21.1 million for the 2023 fiscal year. However, the LLC managing the estate argued for a lower valuation citing Epstein’s notorious reputation, which subsequently led to the Santa Fe County assessor revaluing it at $13.4 million.
Political Context and Campaign Strategy
Don Huffines is a former state senator from Dallas, who is currently campaigning to become the Texas comptroller. He emphasises his commitment to eliminating fraud, waste, and abuse, aiming to position Texas as a “lighthouse for liberty.” His campaign portrays him as a staunch advocate for conservative values, and he has garnered endorsements from prominent figures such as Senator Ted Cruz and former Congressman Ron Paul.
Despite the controversy surrounding his property acquisition, Huffines maintains a significant lead over his primary rivals, with a 20-point advantage over Acting Comptroller Kelly Hancock, as reported by The Texas Tribune. His campaign spokesperson has stated that the Huffines family had no prior knowledge of the ranch before participating in the public auction, which allegedly benefitted Epstein’s victims.
Bipartisan Efforts to Address Epstein’s Legacy
In the wake of these revelations, New Mexico lawmakers are pushing to establish a bipartisan “truth commission” to investigate the activities that transpired at the ranch during Epstein’s ownership. This initiative aims to document the testimonies of survivors and shed light on the extent of abuse that occurred on the premises. Representative Andrea Romero expressed her dismay over the allegations, emphasising the need for accountability and transparency regarding Epstein’s actions in New Mexico.
Survivors of Epstein’s abuse, including Virginia Giuffre and Annie Farmer, have recounted their harrowing experiences at the ranch, which has become synonymous with the late financier’s dark legacy. The proposed commission seeks to ensure that the historical records of these abuses are preserved and acknowledged.
Why it Matters
The connection of a prominent political figure like Don Huffines to a property with such a deeply troubling history raises significant ethical concerns and could influence public perception of his candidacy. As the investigation into Epstein’s past continues, the implications of this revelation extend beyond Texas, igniting a broader discourse on accountability, systemic failures, and the enduring impact of Epstein’s actions on vulnerable communities. This situation serves as a stark reminder of the need for vigilance in political leadership, particularly when intertwined with issues of abuse and exploitation.
