Trump commerce secretary Howard Lutnick arranged to visit Epstein island, files show

The Guardian - World NewsCenter-LeftEN 3 min read 100% complete by Anna BettsJanuary 30, 2026 at 11:26 PM

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Newly released Epstein-related documents show that Howard Lutnick, currently Trump's commerce secretary, arranged a visit to Jeffrey Epstein's island in St. Thomas in December 2012. Emails indicate Lutnick, along with his family and friends, planned to meet Epstein for lunch at his island, Little St. James. Another email suggests a meeting occurred, though Lutnick told the New York Times he spent "zero time with him" and couldn't comment without seeing the documents. The files also reveal Lutnick invited Epstein to a Hillary Clinton fundraiser in November 2015, though it's unclear if Epstein attended. The fundraiser was reportedly held at Lutnick's home, which was located next door to Epstein's residence.

Key Entities & Roles

Key Player Opposition Context

New York Post 35% St Bart's 40% Caribbean 40% Anguilla 40% New York Times 40% Cantor Fitzgerald 40% Department of Justice 50% Hillary Clinton ×250% Donald Trump 60% St Thomas ×260% Howard Lutnick ×1090% Jeffrey Epstein ×1095%

Keywords

howard lutnick 100% jeffrey epstein 100% epstein island 90% email correspondence 70% department of justice 70% hillary clinton 60% fundraiser 60% newly released documents 50% st thomas 50% secretary of commerce 40%