Howard Lutnick acknowledged Tuesday that he visited Jeffrey Epstein’s private island in 2012, igniting new political fallout in Washington.
The US Commerce Secretary told a Senate committee that he had lunch on Little Saint James, often referred to as Epstein Island, but insisted he had no close relationship with the disgraced financier. His admission comes after newly released Justice Department files contradicted earlier claims that he had cut ties with Epstein decades ago.
Lutnick Confirms Island Visit
During testimony before the Senate Appropriations Committee, Lutnick said, “We had lunch on the island, that is true, for an hour.” He emphasized that he was there with his wife, children, and nannies while on a family vacation.
Lutnick told lawmakers he saw only his family, another couple, and staff working on the property. He denied witnessing any inappropriate behavior.
Little Saint James in the US Virgin Islands became central to federal investigations into Epstein’s sex trafficking operation. According to court records and reporting by Reuters, prosecutors alleged that Epstein used the island to abuse and traffic underage girls.
Political Pressure Mounts
Several lawmakers from both parties have called for Lutnick’s resignation. Democratic Senator Adam Schiff said Lutnick “has no business being our Commerce Secretary” and raised concerns about his earlier statements regarding Epstein.
Republican Congressman Thomas Massie also suggested Lutnick should step down. Representative Robert Garcia accused Lutnick of misleading the public about his past dealings.
The White House defended the Commerce Secretary. Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt told reporters that President Donald Trump “fully supports” Lutnick and that he remains a key member of the administration. Official statements from the administration are available at whitehouse.gov.
Business Ties Under Scrutiny
Recently released DOJ documents indicate that Lutnick and Epstein once had business interactions, including joint investments. Lutnick told senators that over a 14 year period he “barely had anything to do with that person.”
He denied having dinner at Epstein’s New York home in 2011, although documents referenced a planned meeting that year. He also rejected claims that Epstein showed interest in meeting his nanny, calling it unrelated to him.
Epstein died in federal custody in 2019 while awaiting trial on sex trafficking charges. The Department of Justice Office of Inspector General later reviewed the circumstances surrounding his death. Details of those investigations are available through the DOJ at justice.gov.
What Happens Next
Lutnick remains in office despite mounting criticism. Congressional committees may continue reviewing documents related to Epstein and individuals connected to him.
The controversy highlights ongoing political sensitivity surrounding Epstein’s network of associates. While no criminal charges have been filed against Lutnick, the public scrutiny underscores how connections to Epstein continue to carry serious political consequences.
Lutnick closed his testimony by stating, “I have nothing to hide, absolutely nothing.” Whether that statement satisfies lawmakers remains to be seen.