Howard Lutnick's real estate ties to financier and child sex offender Jeffrey Epstein are once again drawing scrutiny, given the commerce secretary's apparent support for President Donald Trump's dismissal of what he described as "the Epstein case."

A 2019 investigation by Crain's found that Epstein—in addition to his infamous townhouse at 9 East 71st Street in Manhattan, also known as the Herbert N. Straus House—had significant links to the adjacent property, which real estate records show is still owned by Lutnick.

When approached for comment on the property and Lutnick's relationship with his former neighbor, the Commerce Department told Newsweek that the pair "had no personal relationship, contact, or direct dealings."

Why It Matters

The dispute that has arisen in the Republican Party over Epstein, and the "client list" he is alleged to have possessed, has become a significant thorn in the side of the Trump administration. Prominent MAGA figures including Tucker Carlson and Alex Jones have voiced anger at the refusal to release full details regarding Epstein's past relationships, and the handling of the case has resulted in feuds within and between federal agencies, according to CNN and the BBC.

Dear Humans,

Trump appointed Howard Lutnick as Commerce Secretary this year.

What you probably didn’t know is that Lutnick used to live next door to Jeffrey Epstein. Like, literally next door. East 71st Street. Manhattan. While Epstein and Maxwell were busy trafficking minors.

That’s not speculation. That’s a fact. And he’s currently running America’s economic policy. Which Donald keeps damaging to distract from his Epstein allegations.

Yesterday Lutnick just stood there and laughed while his evil buddy Donold deflected Epstein questions on a tarmac.