A man who looks just like Jeffrey Epstein wants to run your town

Palm Beach Pete is running for mayor in the Florida town where the rich predator once lived.

When a town tries to heal from a dark past, the last thing it wants is a constant reminder of its worst monster. This is the reality facing local voters today.

WHAT HAPPENED

A local man known as "Palm Beach Pete" has filed to run for mayor of Palm Beach, Florida.

He looks strikingly like Jeffrey Epstein. Epstein was the rich man who abused young girls in his mansion just down the street.

Residents are shocked by how much Pete looks like the dead predator. Some fear his run will bring back painful memories the town wants to forget.

WHAT THE EVIDENCE SHOWS

Palm Beach Pete filed official paperwork to run for mayor of the town.

• The candidate shares the same sharp jaw, gray hair, and facial lines as Epstein.
• Epstein's old estate sat just minutes away from the town hall.
• Local voters have expressed deep shock online and in person about the race.
• The town is still healing from the crimes that took place there years ago.

THE BIGGER QUESTION

Is this a real campaign to help the town, or is it just for show?

Palm Beach has worked hard to move past its association with Epstein. A mayor who looks just like him could keep those dark days in the spotlight.

THE OTHER SIDE

Supporters of Pete say he is a local citizen with a right to run. They say he cannot help what his face looks like and wants to focus on real issues like traffic and local taxes. Still, many voters feel his run is in bad taste and hurts the town's image.

WHAT HAPPENS NOW

Voters will have to decide if they can look past his face when they go to vote. The race will show if the town has moved on, or if the past still holds power over them.

WHAT WE STILL DON'T KNOW

What are Pete's main plans for the town budget?

• How do the victims of Epstein feel about his campaign?
• Will other people in the race use his looks against him?