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NewsThe GuardianMay 6, 2026United States

Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick to Face Closed-Door Questioning on Epstein Ties

Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick is scheduled to provide closed-door testimony to the House Oversight Committee regarding his past relationship with the late sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. The interview follows public pressure and threats of a subpoena from committee Democrats, alongside cooperation from Republican leadership.

congressional oversightJeffrey EpsteinHoward Lutnickpolitical ethicsHouse Oversight Committee
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Why It Matters

The testimony addresses potential conflicts of interest and accountability for a high-ranking cabinet official regarding his documented associations with Jeffrey Epstein.

Key Facts

  • Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick is participating in a closed-door, transcribed interview with the House Oversight Committee.
  • The interview focuses on Lutnick's past relationship with Jeffrey Epstein.
  • Lutnick previously claimed he severed ties with Epstein in 2005, but later acknowledged visiting Epstein's private island in 2012.
  • CBS News reported that Lutnick and Epstein were in business together as recently as 2014.
  • The Department of Justice briefly deleted and then restored an undated photo of Lutnick and Epstein on the island.
  • Lutnick agreed to the interview after House Democrats threatened to issue a subpoena.
  • Republican committee members, including Nancy Mace and James Comer, facilitated the agreement for the interview.
  • Lutnick previously refused to answer questions regarding Epstein during public congressional hearings.

Who's Mentioned

organizationHouse Oversight Committee“Congressional panel conducting the closed-door interview.”personRo Khanna“Democratic Representative who pushed for the subpoena.”personMadeleine Dean“Democratic Representative who previously questioned Lutnick on his Epstein ties.”personJames Comer“Republican Chair of the House Oversight Committee.”personHoward Lutnick“Commerce Secretary facing questioning regarding his ties to Jeffrey Epstein.”personDonald Trump“President whose administration includes Lutnick.”personNancy Mace“Republican Representative who called for Lutnick's appearance.”personJeffrey Epstein“Late sex offender whose past relationship with Lutnick is under investigation.”