US Commerce Secretary Faces Backlash Over Epstein Island Visit
Published 10 February 2026
Highlights
- US Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick confirmed visiting Jeffrey Epstein's island in 2012, contradicting earlier claims of severing ties in 2005.
- Lutnick's visit was revealed through emails released by the US Department of Justice, prompting calls for his resignation from both parties.
- Despite the controversy, the White House, under President Trump, continues to support Lutnick, emphasizing his importance to the administration.
- Lutnick testified that he had minimal interaction with Epstein, meeting him only twice over 14 years, aside from the island visit.
- The revelation adds to the ongoing scrutiny of high-profile individuals connected to Epstein, with over 3.5 million documents released by the justice department.
US Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick is under intense scrutiny following his admission of visiting Jeffrey Epstein's private island in 2012, a revelation that contradicts his previous statements about severing ties with the disgraced financier in 2005. Lutnick's testimony on Capitol Hill on Tuesday has sparked bipartisan calls for his resignation, though he maintains the support of President Donald Trump.
Lutnick's Testimony and the Island Visit
During his testimony before the Senate Appropriations Committee, Lutnick confirmed that he, along with his family, had lunch on Epstein's island while on a family vacation. "I did have lunch with him as I was on a boat going across on a family vacation," Lutnick stated, adding that his wife, children, and nannies accompanied him. This admission came after the US Department of Justice released emails detailing the visit, including correspondence from Lutnick's wife expressing anticipation for the lunch.
Political Reactions and Calls for Resignation
The revelation has led to mounting pressure from lawmakers across the political spectrum. Republican Congressman Thomas Massie suggested that Lutnick should resign to ease the burden on President Trump, while Democratic House members, including Robert Garcia and Ro Khanna, have echoed similar sentiments. Despite these calls, White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt affirmed Lutnick's continued importance to the administration, noting Trump's full support.
Lutnick's Relationship with Epstein
Lutnick, who has not been accused of any wrongdoing related to Epstein, emphasized that his interactions with the financier were minimal. He recounted meeting Epstein only twice over a 14-year period, aside from the island visit. Lutnick's previous assertion of distancing himself from Epstein in 2005 is now under scrutiny, as the justice department's documents indicate otherwise.
What this might mean
The ongoing controversy surrounding Howard Lutnick's visit to Epstein's island could have significant political ramifications. If pressure from lawmakers continues to build, Lutnick may face increased scrutiny and potential legal inquiries. The situation also highlights the broader implications of the Epstein scandal, as it continues to ensnare high-profile figures across various sectors. Experts suggest that the administration's handling of this issue could impact public perception, particularly in the lead-up to future elections. As more documents are released, further revelations could emerge, potentially altering the political landscape and prompting additional resignations or investigations.
