Rep. Garcia Blasts Commerce Sec. Lutnick Over Epstein Ties

Garcia Demands Answers on Lutnick’s Epstein Connections

WASHINGTON D.C. – As the House Oversight Committee continues its investigation into the Jeffrey Epstein scandal, Congressman Robert Garcia, the ranking member of the committee, has sharply criticized Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick for his past ties to the disgraced financier. Garcia’s comments come as Lutnick has agreed to a transcribed interview with the committee, a move Garcia suggests was prompted by an imminent subpoena.

Speaking on the urgency of the investigation, Garcia stated, “We were actually going to subpoena Howard Lutnick today in the oversight committee. He was very aware of that. And so he, of course, did the right thing. And yesterday goes and says he’ll voluntarily answer our questions. We’re glad he’s doing so because we were going to subpoena him and he’d be in front of us whether he wanted to or not.”

The Congressman expressed skepticism regarding Lutnick’s previous claims of having no contact with Epstein after 2005, especially in light of new information. “Howard Lutnick, of course, said that he did not have any contact with Epstein after 2005. He was very public about that. And then what do we learn? He went on the plane. He went to the island. He went into business with Jeffrey,” Garcia asserted, highlighting the committee’s intent to thoroughly vet these connections.

Criticism of Republican Priorities and Oversight Failures

Garcia also used the platform to criticize what he perceives as misplaced priorities by the Republican-led committee and the broader congressional agenda. He argued that Republicans are focusing on unsubstantiated claims of fraud in social programs while neglecting more pressing issues and failing to hold powerful individuals accountable.

“The truth is, is that there is fraud and waste in every single state across the country. It needs to be addressed. That’s why you have U.S. attorneys. That’s why you have independent inspectors general, and it’s consistently addressed,” Garcia explained. “What’s important is that if a few people in a state are committing fraud, that we then don’t go in and remove food assistance for hundreds of thousands of children, or that we don’t go in and cut health care for millions across the country.”

He drew a stark contrast between the committee’s focus and what he views as failures in addressing serious injustices, referencing the controversial immigration crackdown in Minnesota. “Where is the justice for Liam Ramos, who was deported and taken essentially to a camp in another state and locked up there for no reason? A kid, a child,” Garcia questioned, underscoring his belief that the committee should be investigating human rights abuses and advocating for victims rather than targeting social safety nets.

Expanding the Epstein Investigation: New Witnesses and Subpoenas

The Oversight Committee’s pursuit of information in the Epstein case is expanding, with recent moves to subpoena additional witnesses and seek further transparency. Garcia indicated support for efforts to bring more individuals to testify, including Pam Bondi, regarding the delayed release of Epstein’s files.

“Just maybe within the last hour, there’s been a subpoena that’s been proposed to bring in Pam Bondi, to actually explain to the American public why 50 percent of the files still have not been released,” Garcia revealed. “So I’m hoping Republicans will join Democrats and actually get that through the floor as well.”

The committee, under Chairman Comer, has also ordered testimony from seven new witnesses, a list that includes notable figures such as Bill Gates, former White House lawyer Catherine Rumler, and former assistants to Epstein and business leaders. Garcia affirmed the Democratic stance on cooperation and thorough investigation.

“We support as Democrats. We’ll talk to anybody. We don’t care if they’re Democrats or Republicans or if they worked for former Democratic administrations or Republican ones,” Garcia stated. “So, we will continue to push Republicans on oversight to issue these subpoenas… What we want is justice for the survivors. So let’s have those conversations and let’s find out what their connections to Jeffrey Epstein actually were.”

Call for Donald Trump’s Testimony

In a significant development, Garcia explicitly called for former President Donald Trump to testify before the committee, citing his frequent appearance in the Epstein files.

“One person that’s not on that list is Donald Trump. And Donald Trump’s in those Epstein files almost more than anyone besides Jeffrey Epstein and Ghislaine Maxwell herself,” Garcia argued. “So let’s get the president to actually testify in front of our committee.”

The Congressman emphasized that the committee’s goal is to uncover the full truth and ensure justice for Epstein’s victims, regardless of political affiliation. The ongoing efforts signal a continued push for accountability and transparency in one of the most high-profile and disturbing cases in recent memory.

The investigation into Jeffrey Epstein’s network is ongoing, with the Oversight Committee expected to pursue further testimony and evidence. Key areas of focus will include the full cooperation of individuals like Howard Lutnick, the release of all pertinent documents, and the potential testimony of high-profile figures whose names have surfaced in connection with Epstein. The committee’s ability to secure these testimonies and ensure transparency will be critical in determining the extent of the cover-up and holding all responsible parties accountable.

Source: 'Complete liar': Rep. Garcia slams Lutnick for Epstein ties (YouTube)