Larry Summers Steps Down Amid Harvard's Probe into Epstein Ties

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Harvard University has launched a new investigation into its connections to convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, following the release of 20,000 documents from Epstein's estate. The probe is a response to correspondence between Epstein and the university's former president, Larry Summers, which has been made public by US lawmakers. Former President Larry Summers has announced that he will step back from public commitments, including his role as director of the Mossavar-Rahmani Center for Business and Government. This decision comes as a result of the university's review of its ties to Epstein, which included donations and frequent visits to the university. According to a 2020 report, Harvard received over $9 million in gifts from Epstein between 1998 and 2008, with no gifts received after his conviction in 2008. The university had previously disclosed its connections to Epstein, and now, with the release of new documents, it is conducting a further review. Summers, who was a prominent figure in American economics, has faced criticism for his ties to Epstein. In a statement, Summers expressed his 'deep shame' and took responsibility for his decision to continue communicating with Epstein. He has also stepped down from his role as a paid contributor to Bloomberg Television and the board of OpenAI. The investigation is a response to the release of documents that include exchanges between Epstein and high-profile figures, including former Trump adviser Steve Bannon and Peter Mandelson, who was fired from his post as the UK ambassador to the US. The documents also reveal that Summers discussed President Donald Trump with Epstein and asked for romantic advice regarding a woman he was mentoring. Summers has faced criticism in the past for his comments on women in math and science careers, and his resignation as president of Harvard in 2006. He later served as Treasury secretary from 1999 to 2001 under former President Bill Clinton. The university's inquiry did not find evidence that Epstein engaged with undergraduate students during his visits to the university. The Harvard inquiry is ongoing, and the university has stated that it will evaluate what actions may be warranted in response to the new information. The investigation is a response to the growing pressure on Summers, who is nearing the twilight of his career as one of the most prominent economists in American history.