President Donald Trump has delivered a robust display of backing for his embattled Commerce Secretary, Howard Lutnick, by inviting him to join the presidential entourage on a journey to Fort Bragg and onward to Palm Beach, Florida. This move comes amidst escalating demands for Lutnick's resignation due to his connections with the late convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein.
Contradictory Statements and Sustained Pressure
As he departed the White House on Friday, Trump sidestepped a reporter's inquiry regarding whether he would request Lutnick's resignation or dismiss him. This followed Lutnick's admission to the Senate Commerce Committee earlier in the week that he visited Epstein's private island, Little Saint James, in 2012 for lunch with his wife and children. Lutnick had previously asserted he severed all ties with Epstein after a disturbing encounter in 2005.
Documentary Evidence Contradicts Earlier Claims
Department of Justice documents have revealed that Lutnick maintained email correspondence with Epstein to arrange the 2012 island visit. These communications directly contradict his October statements on a New York Post podcast, where he claimed to have cut off contact entirely. The documents further indicate that Lutnick sustained ties with Epstein as late as 2018, long after Epstein's initial legal troubles and subsequent indictment on federal sex trafficking charges in 2019.
Presidential Support Amidst Controversy
The inclusion of Lutnick on Air Force One, a coveted privilege for cabinet members, underscores Trump's support. The travel list, obtained by The Independent, also features North Carolina Senator Ted Budd, Representatives Richard Hudson, Brad Knott, and David Rouzer, alongside First Lady Melania Trump and various White House staff.
Trump's Ambiguous Remarks on the Matter
During an event in the Roosevelt Room focused on repealing a climate regulation, Trump was questioned about his awareness of Lutnick's trip and his confidence in the commerce secretary. Trump initially stated, "No, I wasn't aware of it ... I actually haven't spoken to him about it ... but from what I hear, he was there with his wife and children." He notably avoided addressing the confidence aspect, despite Lutnick being a longtime friend who previously sought the Treasury Secretary role after serving as finance chief for Trump's 2024 campaign.
White House Reaffirms Backing
White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt reinforced this stance on Tuesday, asserting that Trump "fully supports" Lutnick and describing him as "a very important member of President Trump's team." This endorsement comes despite the swirling controversy and public scrutiny over Lutnick's past associations.
The situation highlights the ongoing challenges within the administration as it navigates personal loyalties amidst serious allegations. Lutnick's history with Epstein, including their time as neighbors in New York and the documented communications, continues to fuel calls for accountability and transparency.
