The family of Don Huffines, a former Republican senator from Texas who is currently running for the position of state comptroller, has acquired Zorro Ranch in New Mexico, a property formerly owned by the disgraced Jeffrey Epstein. This purchase took place after Epstein’s death, following his conviction for serious crimes including child sex trafficking.
According to a statement from Huffines’ campaign spokesperson, Allen Blakemore, the Huffines family purchased the property four years after Epstein’s death at a public auction, with proceeds benefiting Epstein’s victims. Prior to the auction, the family had never visited the estate.
The ownership of the ranch was first disclosed by the Santa Fe New Mexican, which cited public records accessed through information requests. The property was bought in 2023 by a limited liability corporation associated with the Huffines family for an undisclosed sum. Subsequently, they contested its valuation for tax purposes, claiming it was assessed at $13.4 million partly due to the “notoriety” of the property, as reported by the New Mexico newspaper. Public records confirmed Huffines’ connection to the purchasing entity.
Huffines, a businessman with a background in the Texas Senate representing the Dallas region, previously ran against Governor Greg Abbott in 2022 but did not succeed. Recent polling indicates that he is entering the early voting phase with a solid lead over his competitors in the primary race for comptroller. This role is crucial, serving as the state’s chief financial officer responsible for managing taxes, investments, and other essential fiscal duties.
In the upcoming Republican primary on March 3, Huffines will face off against Acting Comptroller Kelly Hancock, a former state senator appointed by Abbott last summer, along with candidates Michael Berlanga and Railroad Commissioner Christi Craddick.
The news of Huffines’ property acquisition coincides with recent document releases by the U.S. Department of Justice concerning Epstein. The circumstances surrounding Epstein’s death have fueled various conspiracy theories, largely due to his connections with influential figures across politics and academia, creating ongoing political challenges for Republicans nationwide.
