Leon Black faces contempt vote over Epstein matter

The House Oversight Committee has unanimously recommended holding billionaire Leon Black in contempt of Congress over his refusal to comply with subpoenas related to the investigation into Jeffrey Epstein. Black, the co-founder and former CEO of Apollo Global Management, declined to appear for a deposition and failed to provide documents sought by the committee.

He has sued the panel and its chairman, Republican Rep. James Comer, arguing that the subpoenas exceed the committee's legal authority. The bipartisan 41-0 vote came after Black refused to answer questions about his relationship with Epstein, a convicted sex offender, and alleged that the investigation was a "fishing expedition."

Comer stated that Black is using legal action to avoid answering questions about his dealings with Epstein. Lawmakers emphasized that Black's testimony could shed light on the financial connections between Epstein and influential individuals, as well as the failures of government systems in protecting victims. The committee's recommendation now moves to the full House for a final decision on holding Black in contempt, with the matter potentially being referred to the Justice Department for prosecution.

The House is set to return from its pre-election recess later in the week, leaving the timing of the final action uncertain.