PoliticsJOE Podcast Will the Epstein files end the monarchy?
Feb 12, 2026
Graham Smith, chief executive of Republic and veteran campaigner for a UK parliamentary republic, discusses Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor’s links to the Epstein files. He covers reporting Andrew to police, alleged institutional cover-ups, palace cooperation questions, media deference to royals, protester rights, and calls for accountability and policing without favoritism.
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Stripping Titles As A Firewall
- Smith says stripping Andrew of titles built a firewall to protect the rest of the family.
- He argues the palace prioritises institutional protection over full transparency or standards.
Palace Likely Knew Earlier
- Graham Smith criticises the family's delayed cooperation and suggests they knew about Epstein ties earlier.
- He questions why they didn't provide information to police that could have prompted prosecutions.
Heckles Expose Royal Vulnerability
- Smith highlights public heckles as revealing the 'emperor's new clothes' moment for the royals.
- He blames journalists for not collectively pressing awkward questions at events.