Lutnick Admits Meetings With Epstein, Faces Scrutiny
PUBLISHED Feb 9, 2026, 6:00 PM ET
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Washington Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick acknowledged this week that he met Jeffrey Epstein twice after Epstein’s 2008 conviction and took a 2012 lunch on Epstein’s private island, reversing past statements that he cut ties in 2005. The Justice Department released documents in January that included emails and travel plans; Lutnick testified before a Senate Appropriations subcommittee on Feb. 10, said he was with family and denied a closer relationship, and faced bipartisan calls to resign. Lawmakers continue reviewing the DOJ files and questioning Lutnick’s credibility amid ongoing scrutiny, and ethics investigators also. Based on 6 articles reviewed and supporting research.
By Emily Rhodes | JQJO News
Timeline of Events
- 2008: Jeffrey Epstein pleads guilty to state-level sex charges.
- 2012: Records indicate Howard Lutnick attended a lunch on Epstein’s private island.
- January: Justice Department releases millions of Epstein-related files under a disclosure law.
- Feb. 10: Lutnick testifies before a Senate Appropriations subcommittee acknowledging meetings after 2008.
- Mid-February: Bipartisan congressional scrutiny intensifies and some lawmakers call for Lutnick’s resignation.
- Articles Published:
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Short-term, the administration avoided an immediate cabinet vacancy as Lutnick remained in his post while scrutiny continues.
Public trust and Lutnick's personal and professional credibility suffered after DOJ files contradicted his prior statements.
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Lutnick Admits Meetings With Epstein, Faces Scrutiny
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