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Commerce Secretary Lutnick Under Fire for Epstein Ties

2/15/2026

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Summary

Story summary

Howard Lutnick, the U.S. Secretary of Commerce, faces scrutiny over his past interactions with Jeffrey Epstein.
Emails show Lutnick communicated with Epstein after claiming to sever ties in 2005.
Notable exchanges include a 2017 donation from Epstein for a dinner honoring Lutnick and a 2012 family visit to Epstein's island.
U.S. President Donald Trump supports Lutnick, while Wall Street reactions leave Lutnick's future uncertain.

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Story summary

Howard Lutnick, the U.S. Secretary of Commerce, faces scrutiny over his past interactions with Jeffrey Epstein.
Emails show Lutnick communicated with Epstein after claiming to sever ties in 2005.
Notable exchanges include a 2017 donation from Epstein for a dinner honoring Lutnick and a 2012 family visit to Epstein's island.
U.S. President Donald Trump supports Lutnick, while Wall Street reactions leave Lutnick's future uncertain.