Commerce Secretary Lutnick to Testify Before House Panel on Epstein Ties

Comer says Lutnick has 'agreed to appear voluntarily' as part of investigation into late sex offender Jeffrey Epstein.

Published on Mar. 4, 2026

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Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick has agreed to testify before the House Oversight Committee as part of its investigation into the late sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, Committee Chairman James Comer announced. Lutnick, who lived next door to Epstein for over a decade, previously suggested he had distanced himself from Epstein prior to his 2008 conviction, but recent revelations show the two men remained in contact for years after.

Why it matters

The House Oversight Committee's investigation into Epstein's connections with high-profile individuals is seen as an effort to uncover any potential wrongdoing or improper relationships. Lutnick's voluntary appearance before the committee is significant, as he was previously grilled about his past denials and contacts with Epstein.

The details

Comer did not specify when Lutnick's appearance will occur, but said he 'commends his demonstrated commitment to transparency and appreciates his willingness to engage with the Committee.' Lutnick was previously questioned about correspondence with Epstein, detailed in files recently released by the Justice Department, which revealed that Lutnick visited Epstein's Caribbean island in 2012 with his family and others.

  • In October, Lutnick said on the 'Pod Force One' podcast that he had distanced himself from Epstein in the mid-2000s prior to Epstein's 2008 conviction.
  • Last month, Lutnick was grilled on Capitol Hill during an appearance before a Senate Appropriations subcommittee about his past denial and revelations of his continued contact with Epstein.
  • On March 3, 2026, the House Oversight Committee released video of the appearances of former President Bill Clinton and former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton before the committee last week.

The players

Howard Lutnick

The current U.S. Commerce Secretary who lived next door to Jeffrey Epstein for over a decade and has agreed to testify voluntarily before the House Oversight Committee as part of its investigation into Epstein.

James Comer

The Chairman of the House Oversight Committee, which is investigating Jeffrey Epstein's connections with high-profile individuals.

Jeffrey Epstein

The late sex offender whose connections with high-profile individuals are the focus of the House Oversight Committee's investigation.

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What they’re saying

“I commend his demonstrated commitment to transparency and appreciate his willingness to engage with the Committee. I look forward to his testimony.”

— James Comer, Chairman, House Oversight Committee (X)

“So, I was never in the room with him socially, for business or even philanthropy. If that guy was there, I wasn't going because he's gross.”

— Howard Lutnick, Commerce Secretary (Pod Force One podcast)

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.