US commerce secretary faces calls to resign over Epstein island visit
Note: AI technology was used to generate this article’s audio.
- Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick admits visiting Jeffrey Epstein’s island in 2012, contradicting earlier statements.
- Lawmakers accuse him of lying, amid scrutiny over possible financial ties and ongoing Epstein connections.
US Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick is facing growing political pressure and calls to resign after acknowledging he visited convicted financier Jeffrey Epstein’s private island in 2012.
Read more: US commerce chief admits “Epstein Island” lunch but denies closer ties
The revelation undermines Lutnick’s previous claims that he severed ties with Epstein in 2005, placing him in direct conflict with Democratic lawmakers who accused him of lying and misleading the public.
From revulsion to visit
Lutnick had previously described Epstein as a “repulsive individual” and recalled feeling disturbed during a 2005 visit to Epstein’s New York home, promising never to be in the same room again.
Recent Justice Department records and emails, however, show the two met on Little Saint James Island seven years later. Lutnick characterized the visit as a brief “family vacation” of just over an hour, though documents hint at potential business connections between the two after the trip.
Lawmakers demand accountability
Democratic Senator Adam Schiff called for Lutnick’s immediate resignation, while Representative Robert Garcia accused him of lying about the nature of the relationship.
Read more: Turkish man faces unwanted attention over striking resemblance to Epstein
Critics also raised concerns over communications through assistants and Epstein’s interest in the secretary’s children’s nanny, a matter Lutnick denied was connected to him.
White House stands by Lutnick
Despite mounting criticism, the Trump administration continues to support Lutnick. White House spokeswoman Caroline Levitt said the president backs the secretary as a key member of his economic team.
The administration faces a delicate position, as the Epstein case touches on sensitive issues of human trafficking and sexual exploitation, raising questions about oversight and ethics in government appointments.
