Larry Summers Exits OpenAI Board Amid Epstein Scandal Fallout

Image Source: Internet

Former US Treasury Secretary Larry Summers has stepped down from the board of OpenAI, following the release of his correspondence with Jeffrey Epstein, a convicted sex offender. In a statement, OpenAI acknowledged Summers' resignation, praising his contributions to the board. Summers had joined OpenAI in November, bringing his expertise in finance and politics, which had drawn attention to the startup. However, his decision to continue communicating with Epstein, which he described as 'misguided,' has led to his resignation. The emails between Summers and Epstein were released by the US House Committee on Oversight and Government Reform as part of a larger trove of documents from Epstein's estate. The exchanges included discussions on public attitudes toward sexual harassment allegations. This move comes after Summers announced his departure from public roles, citing his 'deep shame' over his continued communication with Epstein. The Harvard professor and Bloomberg TV contributor had previously faced criticism for his comments on women in math and science careers, which he apologized for in 2006. As a board member, Summers had led an internal review into the brief ousting of OpenAI CEO Sam Altman. Now, with his resignation, OpenAI's board will have to reassess its dynamics, especially given the recent additions of new directors, including Nicole Seligman and Paul Nakasone.