President Donald Trump said he did not know that Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick visited Jeffrey Epstein’s private island until recently, as new Justice Department documents reignited controversy in Washington.
Speaking at the White House, Trump told reporters he had only learned about Lutnick’s 2012 trip to Little St. James “lately.” He emphasized that he personally had never visited the island. “I was never there,” Trump said.
DOJ Files Confirm 2012 Visit
Recently released documents from the Justice Department confirmed that Lutnick traveled to Little St. James in 2012. The records indicate that he visited the island with his wife, children, and nannies.
Lutnick acknowledged the trip during Senate testimony, describing it as a one-time visit. He said it occurred after he had severed business ties with Epstein in 2005 and insisted he saw nothing inappropriate during the outing.
Epstein, a convicted sex offender, owned the private island in the U.S. Virgin Islands. Federal prosecutors alleged he trafficked underage girls there before his 2019 death in federal custody. The Justice Department’s broader document release followed passage of the Epstein Files Transparency Act by Congress, which required disclosure of investigative records with limited redactions.
Bipartisan Calls for Resignation
The confirmed visit sparked criticism from lawmakers in both parties. Some Democrats argued that Lutnick’s previous public statements about distancing himself from Epstein raise questions about transparency.
A handful of Republican lawmakers also voiced concern, citing political fallout and public trust. Several members of Congress have called for Lutnick to resign, though no formal action has been taken.
During the exchange at the White House, Trump defended his cabinet member. The White House said Lutnick remains a “key member” of the administration and retains the president’s full support.
Questions About Awareness and Timing
Trump’s remarks focused on his own lack of knowledge about the visit. He told reporters that he was not aware of the 2012 trip when Lutnick was nominated for his cabinet position.
Lawmakers continue to review the newly released DOJ files to determine whether additional disclosures may emerge. The Department of Justice has not indicated that Lutnick faces any criminal exposure in connection with the island visit.
The controversy underscores how Epstein’s associations with wealthy and powerful figures continue to ripple through American politics years after his death.
What Comes Next
For now, Lutnick remains in office as Commerce Secretary. Congressional committees are reviewing the released materials, and political pressure could increase depending on what additional documents reveal.
Trump’s administration has framed the issue as a past social connection that does not reflect current conduct. Critics argue that public officials must meet higher standards of transparency and accountability.
As Washington debates the implications, the episode highlights how unresolved questions surrounding Epstein’s network still carry significant political weight.