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Press Secretary Cuts Briefing Amid Lutnick-Epstein Controversy

2/11/2026

25 4 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

Karoline Leavitt, White House Press Secretary, abruptly ended the February 10, 2026 briefing after questions about Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick's ties to Jeffrey Epstein.
Howard Lutnick, Commerce Secretary, admitted visiting Epstein's island in 2012, contradicting earlier claims he severed ties.
Karoline Leavitt said U.S. President Donald Trump fully supports Lutnick and criticized reporters for not focusing on positive administration news.

History

Historical Context

Jeffrey Epstein's 2019 arrest for sex trafficking minors reignited scrutiny of his connections with influential figures, including former President Bill Clinton and Prince Andrew. Clinton's ties to Epstein date back to the 1990s, with multiple flights on Epstein's private jet documented. The ongoing fallout from Epstein's crimes continues to challenge public trust in political leaders and their associations with controversial individuals.

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Story summary

Karoline Leavitt, White House Press Secretary, abruptly ended the February 10, 2026 briefing after questions about Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick's ties to Jeffrey Epstein.
Howard Lutnick, Commerce Secretary, admitted visiting Epstein's island in 2012, contradicting earlier claims he severed ties.
Karoline Leavitt said U.S. President Donald Trump fully supports Lutnick and criticized reporters for not focusing on positive administration news.

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