US commerce secretary details 'off-putting' interaction with Epstein in testimony

May 14, 2026

A House Oversight Committee investigation into Jeffrey Epstein has released interview transcripts with Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick and billionaire Ted Waitt, both of whom had connections to Epstein's circle. Lutnick acknowledged three encounters with his former neighbor Epstein, including a 2005 visit where he witnessed a disturbing massage room setup and a controversial 2012 trip to Epstein's Caribbean island that contradicted his earlier claims of cutting ties years before. Waitt discussed his six-year romantic relationship with Ghislaine Maxwell, Epstein's convicted accomplice, stating he was uncomfortable with her continued work relationship with her ex-boyfriend Epstein but witnessed no criminal activity.

Who is affected

US Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick
Ted Waitt, billionaire co-founder of Gateway computers
Ghislaine Maxwell, Epstein's convicted co-conspirator
Jeffrey Epstein's victims (referenced but not named)
The Trump administration (facing calls for Lutnick's resignation)
Members of Congress conducting the investigation

What action is being taken

The House Oversight Committee is conducting a probe into Jeffrey Epstein and releasing transcripts of interviews with individuals connected to him.

Why it matters

This investigation matters because it reveals previously undisclosed connections between high-ranking government officials and a convicted sex offender, raising questions about transparency and judgment. The disclosure that Commerce Secretary Lutnick visited Epstein's island in 2012—seven years after claiming to have severed ties—undermines his credibility and has prompted bipartisan calls for his resignation from a key position overseeing Trump's tariff policy. The testimony also provides additional insight into Ghislaine Maxwell's relationship with Epstein and how she maintained influence over those in her personal life while allegedly facilitating his criminal activities.

What's next

No explicit next steps stated in the article

Read full article from source: BBC