Commerce Secretary Lutnick planned lunch on Epstein's island, new release shows

Jeffrey Epstein and Ghislaine Maxwell are seen in this image released by the Department of Justice in Washington, D.C., U.S., on December 19, 2025 as part of a new trove of documents from its investigations into the late financier and convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. U.S. Justice Department/Handout via REUTERS

WASHINGTON, Jan 30 (Reuters) - The U.S. Justice Department on Friday ‌published millions of new files related to the convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, including emails that showed Howard Lutnick, President Donald Trump's commerce secretary, apparently visited Epstein's private island for lunch years after he claimed to have cut off ties.

In another set ‌of emails, billionaire and former Trump adviser Elon Musk asked whether Epstein was planning any parties but declined an invitation to visit the island.