Commerce Secretary Lutnick to Testify Voluntarily in Epstein Probe

House Oversight Committee chairman says Lutnick has agreed to appear before panel investigating late sex offender Jeffrey Epstein.

Published on Mar. 4, 2026

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Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick has agreed to voluntarily testify before the House Oversight Committee as part of its investigation into the late sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, according to Committee Chairman James Comer. Lutnick, who lived next door to Epstein for over a decade, previously suggested he had distanced himself from Epstein in the mid-2000s prior to Epstein's 2008 conviction, but has faced questions about continued contact with Epstein in later years.

Why it matters

Lutnick's testimony could shed light on the extent of his relationship with Epstein and any potential connections between the two men. The House investigation is examining Epstein's network of powerful associates and whether there was any wrongdoing or cover-up related to the sex offender's activities.

The details

Comer said Lutnick has 'agreed to appear voluntarily' before the House Oversight Committee, though he did not specify when the secretary's appearance will occur. Lutnick was previously grilled by senators about his correspondence with Epstein, including a 2012 visit to Epstein's Caribbean island with his family and others. Lutnick has denied any wrongdoing.

  • Lutnick lived next door to Epstein for over a decade.
  • Epstein was convicted of soliciting a minor for prostitution in 2008.
  • Lutnick visited Epstein's Caribbean island in 2012 with his family and others.
  • Lutnick testified before a Senate Appropriations subcommittee last month about his past contact with Epstein.

The players

Howard Lutnick

The current U.S. Commerce Secretary who lived next door to convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein for over a decade.

James Comer

The chairman of the House Oversight Committee, which is investigating Jeffrey Epstein's network of powerful associates.

Jeffrey Epstein

The late sex offender whose network of powerful associates is being investigated by the House Oversight Committee.

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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, House Oversight Committee Chairman (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 House Oversight Committee has not yet announced a specific date for Lutnick's testimony, but Chairman Comer said he looks forward to hearing from the Commerce Secretary.

The takeaway

Lutnick's voluntary testimony before the House Oversight Committee investigating Jeffrey Epstein's powerful associates could provide important insights into the extent of his relationship with the convicted sex offender, despite Lutnick's past claims of distancing himself. The outcome of this investigation may have significant implications for Lutnick's political future and public standing.