Trump on Lutnick, Epstein probe: He'll do whatever he has to say

Trump on Lutnick, Epstein probe: He'll do whatever he has to say

Trump on Lutnick, Epstein Probe: He’ll Do Whatever He Has to Say

U.S. President Donald Trump has maintained unwavering support for Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick amid revelations that Lutnick visited Jeffrey Epstein’s private island in 2012, contradicting earlier claims of severing ties with the convicted sex offender. Lutnick’s admission during Senate testimony on February 10 confirmed a lunch meeting with Epstein on his Caribbean island during a family vacation, a detail previously undisclosed.

Trump initially stated he was unaware of the trip but later acknowledged hearing “details” of the visit. “He was there with his wife and children,” Trump said, adding, “I was never there—somebody will someday say that I was never there”. The president’s remarks underscore his tendency to deflect scrutiny while reinforcing loyalty to allies.

The White House has dismissed calls for Lutnick’s resignation, with Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt asserting Trump “fully supports” the secretary. This stance contrasts with bipartisan criticism from lawmakers like Rep. Ro Khanna (D-Calif.) and Rep. Thomas Massie (R-Ky.), who co-sponsored legislation mandating the release of Epstein-related documents and now urge Lutnick to step down.

Lutnick’s testimony revealed conflicting accounts of his relationship with Epstein, including claims of minimal contact over 14 years despite Justice Department records showing multiple interactions, including a 2012 island visit and a 2013 meeting. While Lutnick has not faced criminal charges, critics argue his misrepresentations undermine transparency.

The administration’s defense of Lutnick highlights its broader strategy of shielding top officials from fallout linked to Epstein, despite public outrage. As investigations continue, the episode raises questions about accountability and the political calculus of maintaining key figures in a polarized environment.

For investors and stakeholders, the situation underscores the challenges of navigating governance risks tied to leadership controversies, particularly in an administration known for its combative approach to oversight. The outcome of ongoing probes—and potential legislative actions, such as Virginia’s Law to remove statutes of limitations for sexual abuse survivors— may further shape public and financial market perceptions.

According to reports: BBC, as stated by The Independent: The Independent, BBC reports: BBC, The New York Times: New York Times, CNBC analysis: BBC.