Rep. Ro Khanna, a Democrat from California on the House Oversight Committee, is pushing for President Donald Trump and Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick to testify about their past ties to Jeffrey Epstein. He made the call on NBC’s “Meet the Press” Sunday, citing former President Bill Clinton’s recent testimony as a “precedent.” Khanna’s working with an unnamed Republican colleague—likely Rep. Nancy Mace (R-S.C.), who voiced support Friday—to subpoena Lutnick next week.
Key Details on Epstein Connections
- Lutnick-Epstein emails: Newly released Justice Department files reveal a deeper relationship, including plans for a trip to Epstein’s private island. Lutnick denies wrongdoing; at a Senate hearing, he described it as a family lunch (with wife, four kids, nannies, and another couple’s family) and called it “nothing untoward.” No charges against him.
- Trump-Epstein history: Trump had a long association but claims a “falling out” in the early 2000s, pre-Epstein’s charges. No accusations or charges against Trump. White House spokesperson Abigail Jackson responded: Trump is “totally exonerated,” has released documents, signed the Epstein Files Transparency Act, and pushed investigations—contrasting with Democrats like Hakeem Jeffries.
- Clinton testimonies: Bill Clinton testified last Friday, saying he “saw nothing” and “did nothing wrong,” denying island visits (no charges). Hillary Clinton testified Thursday, claiming no knowledge of Epstein’s crimes and no direct encounters. Khanna noted Democrats asked Clinton tougher questions than Republicans and praised him for answering fully without pleading the Fifth.
Broader Context
Justice Department redactions in Epstein files have drawn scrutiny, including unreleased interviews with a South Carolina woman alleging assault by Epstein and abuse by Trump (per NBC analysis). Officials deny protecting Trump. This fits ongoing bipartisan probes into Epstein’s network, with recent file releases exposing photos and ties across politics.
Khanna believes the public will judge the testimonies once transcripts drop. No word yet on Trump’s response beyond the White House statement.
