House committee subpoenas Leon Black during Epstein testimony

The House Oversight Committee subpoenaed Leon Black on Friday after a closed-door interview about Jeffrey Epstein, escalating its investigation into the use of nondisclosure agreements and the network around the disgraced financier.

Committee members said Black refused to answer questions about NDAs tied to his dealings with Epstein. The panel issued one subpoena for the agreements themselves and another requiring Black to return for a deposition on July 16.

Rep. James Comer, the committee chair, said the subpoenas were a response to Black’s refusal to answer specific questions during the interview. Black’s lawyer, Susan Estrich, called the move a political stunt.

Black, the former chief executive of Apollo Global Management, has long faced scrutiny over payments he made to Epstein. AP reported that Black paid Epstein at least $158 million between 2012 and 2017 for claimed tax, estate planning and related services. Black has denied wrongdoing and has said he did not know about Epstein’s criminal conduct until 2019.

Why the committee acted

Lawmakers are trying to determine whether nondisclosure agreements were used to conceal misconduct or protect relationships connected to Epstein. The subpoena suggests the committee wants both documents and sworn testimony as it presses ahead with the broader probe.

The timing also puts more pressure on Congress to show progress in its Epstein investigation. Black is one of the most prominent business figures to face renewed scrutiny in the effort.

What happens next

Black is scheduled to be deposed under subpoena on July 16, unless the dispute is challenged or resolved before then. The committee may also release more of the interview transcript or supporting documents if the inquiry advances.

One unresolved question is whether Epstein personally drafted, funded or routed any NDAs linked to Black. Another is whether Black will comply with the subpoena or fight it.

The Oversight Committee’s broader Epstein investigation has already drawn testimony from other high-profile figures, including Bill Gates and the Clintons, as lawmakers examine the financier’s network and financial ties.