Howard Lutnick's Planned Visit to Epstein Island Uncovered in DOJ Files
Published 30 January 2026
Highlights
- Howard Lutnick, US Commerce Secretary, planned a visit to Jeffrey Epstein's island in 2012, according to newly released DOJ documents.
- Emails reveal Lutnick and his family intended to visit Little Saint James, contradicting his previous claims of severing ties with Epstein in 2005.
- The documents also suggest Lutnick invited Epstein to a Hillary Clinton fundraiser in 2015, though Epstein's attendance is unclear.
- Lutnick has denied any wrongdoing and stated he spent no time with Epstein during the alleged visit.
- The DOJ's release of Epstein files marks the largest document disclosure since a law mandated it last year.
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Rewritten Article
Howard Lutnick's Planned Visit to Epstein Island Uncovered in DOJ Files
Newly released documents from the Department of Justice reveal that Howard Lutnick, the current US Commerce Secretary, planned a visit to Jeffrey Epstein's private island, Little Saint James, in 2012. This revelation comes despite Lutnick's previous assertions that he had severed ties with the disgraced financier in 2005.
Emails Contradict Lutnick's Claims
The documents, part of the largest release of Epstein-related files mandated by law, include emails indicating that Lutnick, his family, and another family planned a trip to the Caribbean island. An email from Lutnick's wife, Allison, to Epstein's assistant expressed excitement about the visit, stating, "We are looking forward to visiting you." Another email from Lutnick to Epstein discussed logistical details for the visit, suggesting a dinner meeting on the island.
These communications stand in stark contrast to Lutnick's October 2025 interview with the New York Post, where he claimed to have cut ties with Epstein after a disturbing encounter in 2005. Lutnick recounted a visit to Epstein's Manhattan townhouse, where he was shown a massage room, prompting him to vow never to be in the same room with Epstein again.
Political Connections Under Scrutiny
The documents also hint at a political connection between Lutnick and Epstein. In 2015, Lutnick reportedly invited Epstein to a "very intimate" fundraiser for Hillary Clinton. While it remains unclear if Epstein attended, the event was held at Lutnick's home, which was notably next door to Epstein's residence.
Despite the incriminating nature of these documents, Lutnick has denied any wrongdoing. In a phone call with the New York Times, he stated, "I spent zero time with him," before ending the conversation.
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Scenario Analysis
The release of these documents could have significant implications for Howard Lutnick, both legally and politically. While there is no direct evidence of wrongdoing, the contradiction between his past statements and the newly revealed emails could lead to increased scrutiny and potential investigations. Politically, the association with Epstein, particularly in the context of a fundraiser for Hillary Clinton, may attract attention from opponents and the media, potentially impacting Lutnick's career and public image.
Experts suggest that the ongoing release of Epstein files could continue to uncover connections between Epstein and high-profile individuals, leading to further legal and political ramifications. As the public and media delve deeper into these documents, the pressure on those implicated is likely to intensify, prompting a reevaluation of past associations and actions.
Newly released documents from the Department of Justice reveal that Howard Lutnick, the current US Commerce Secretary, planned a visit to Jeffrey Epstein's private island, Little Saint James, in 2012. This revelation comes despite Lutnick's previous assertions that he had severed ties with the disgraced financier in 2005.
Emails Contradict Lutnick's Claims
The documents, part of the largest release of Epstein-related files mandated by law, include emails indicating that Lutnick, his family, and another family planned a trip to the Caribbean island. An email from Lutnick's wife, Allison, to Epstein's assistant expressed excitement about the visit, stating, "We are looking forward to visiting you." Another email from Lutnick to Epstein discussed logistical details for the visit, suggesting a dinner meeting on the island.
These communications stand in stark contrast to Lutnick's October 2025 interview with the New York Post, where he claimed to have cut ties with Epstein after a disturbing encounter in 2005. Lutnick recounted a visit to Epstein's Manhattan townhouse, where he was shown a massage room, prompting him to vow never to be in the same room with Epstein again.
Political Connections Under Scrutiny
The documents also hint at a political connection between Lutnick and Epstein. In 2015, Lutnick reportedly invited Epstein to a "very intimate" fundraiser for Hillary Clinton. While it remains unclear if Epstein attended, the event was held at Lutnick's home, which was notably next door to Epstein's residence.
Despite the incriminating nature of these documents, Lutnick has denied any wrongdoing. In a phone call with the New York Times, he stated, "I spent zero time with him," before ending the conversation.
What this might mean
The release of these documents could have significant implications for Howard Lutnick, both legally and politically. While there is no direct evidence of wrongdoing, the contradiction between his past statements and the newly revealed emails could lead to increased scrutiny and potential investigations. Politically, the association with Epstein, particularly in the context of a fundraiser for Hillary Clinton, may attract attention from opponents and the media, potentially impacting Lutnick's career and public image.
Experts suggest that the ongoing release of Epstein files could continue to uncover connections between Epstein and high-profile individuals, leading to further legal and political ramifications. As the public and media delve deeper into these documents, the pressure on those implicated is likely to intensify, prompting a reevaluation of past associations and actions.
