The House Committee on Oversight and Government Reform is set to consider a resolution to hold Leon Black in contempt of Congress. This action stems from Black's alleged defiance of lawful subpoenas related to his financial and personal relationship with Jeffrey Epstein. The committee aims to compel Black to provide documents and appear for a deposition.
The committee's action underscores the ongoing scrutiny of individuals connected to Jeffrey Epstein and asserts Congress's authority to compel testimony and documents, potentially impacting how wealthy and connected individuals respond to investigations.
WASHINGTON—The House Committee on Oversight and Government Reform is preparing to vote on a resolution to hold Leon Black in contempt of Congress for his alleged refusal to comply with lawful subpoenas. The markup is scheduled for Tuesday, September 15, 2026.
Chairman James Comer (R-Ky.) stated that Black has chosen to obstruct the committee's investigation into his relationship with Jeffrey Epstein by suing the committee and refusing to appear for a deposition or produce requested documents. Comer emphasized that no one is above obeying congressional subpoenas.
The committee's investigation centers on how federal authorities handled Jeffrey Epstein's crimes and how Epstein sought to gain favor with influential individuals. Leon Black reportedly had a decades-long personal and financial relationship with Epstein, during which he paid him at least $158 million after Epstein registered as a sex offender.
Chairman Comer initially sought a transcribed interview with Black on March 3, 2026. Subsequently, two subpoenas were issued compelling Black to produce nondisclosure agreements and appear for a deposition on July 16, 2026. After a delay was accommodated on September 3, 2026, Black allegedly failed to appear, withheld documents, and filed a lawsuit against Comer and the committee.