Rep. Thomas Massie (R-Ky.) called for the resignation of Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick on Sunday, after Lutnick’s name was found in files connected to convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. The congressman’s statement came during an interview with CNN’s Manu Raju on “Inside Politics.”
During the interview, Raju asked Massie about Lutnick’s ties to Epstein, to which Massie responded, “Trump’s Commerce secretary, Howard Lutnick, said that he and his wife decided around 2005 to cut ties with Jeffrey Epstein.” Massie went on to express his concerns about Lutnick’s involvement with Epstein and called for his resignation.
This call for resignation comes after Epstein’s recent arrest on federal charges of sex trafficking minors. Epstein, who has been accused of sexually abusing and trafficking underage girls for years, has been a topic of much discussion in recent weeks. With the release of court documents linking high-profile individuals to Epstein, including Lutnick, many are calling for those involved to be held accountable.
In the wake of these revelations, Massie’s call for Lutnick’s resignation is a bold and necessary move. It is essential for individuals in positions of power to be held accountable for their actions, and Lutnick is no exception. As the head of the Department of Commerce, Lutnick is responsible for promoting economic growth and creating jobs for Americans. However, his association with Epstein raises serious questions about his judgment and integrity.
It is not enough for Lutnick to simply claim that he and his wife cut ties with Epstein in 2005. The fact remains that he was still associated with Epstein at one point, and that in itself is troubling. As a public servant, Lutnick should be held to a higher standard and should have been more cautious about his associations. It is unacceptable for someone in his position to have any ties with a convicted sex offender.
Furthermore, Lutnick’s continued presence in the Trump administration sends the wrong message to the American people. It is a slap in the face to the victims of Epstein’s heinous crimes and a disregard for the seriousness of the situation. The Department of Commerce should not be tainted by any association with Epstein, and it is time for Lutnick to step down and take responsibility for his actions.
Some may argue that Lutnick’s resignation would be an overreaction, as he has not been charged with any crime. However, in the court of public opinion, his association with Epstein is enough to cast a shadow of doubt over his character and his ability to serve effectively. As a public servant, Lutnick should understand that perception is just as important as reality, and his connection to Epstein has damaged his credibility.
It is also worth noting that Lutnick’s resignation would send a strong message to other individuals who may have been associated with Epstein. It would show that no one is above the law and that those who choose to associate with criminals will face consequences. This is a crucial step in ensuring that justice is served for Epstein’s victims and that such heinous crimes do not continue to occur.
In conclusion, Rep. Thomas Massie’s call for Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick’s resignation is a necessary and courageous move. Lutnick’s association with convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein raises serious concerns about his judgment and integrity. As a public servant, Lutnick should be held to a higher standard, and his continued presence in the Trump administration is unacceptable. It is time for Lutnick to take responsibility for his actions and step down from his position. Only then can the Department of Commerce move forward with integrity and credibility.
