U.S. Commerce Secretary Howard Rutnick has publicly asserted that he cut ties with Jeffrey Epstein in 2005, describing him as a 'disgusting person' after visiting Epstein's New York home. However, recent investigations by CBS have unveiled documents indicating that Rutnick maintained both business and personal relations with Epstein far beyond this date, including a co-investment deal and continued communications that extended into 2018. Specific evidence shows that Rutnick and Epstein were active business partners in at least two investment deals and even exchanged emails discussing social engagements as late as 2011 and 2012.

The documents analyzed by CBS revealed that Rutnick and Epstein signed a contract to acquire shares of a now-defunct advertising technology company, AdFin, in late December 2012, showing their business collaboration extended into partnership agreements. Moreover, evidence suggests that Rutnick's family planned a visit to Epstein’s private island in the Virgin Islands in 2012, which directly contradicts his assertions of severance. The chronology of their interactions presents a stark contrast to Rutnick’s claims about having distanced himself from Epstein's circle.

This revelation carries significant implications for Rutnick's credibility as a public official given ongoing scrutiny of connections between high-profile individuals and Epstein. In light of these documents, Rutnick's previous comments may be perceived as a deliberate attempt to distance himself from a tarnished legacy associated with Epstein, whose notoriety has only intensified in the wake of criminal charges and investigations into his network. The exposure of these interactions casts doubt on the integrity and publicly presented narratives of those who have claimed to sever ties from Epstein while maintaining ongoing relations behind the scenes.