The House Oversight Committee voted unanimously to recommend holding billionaire Leon Black in contempt of Congress after he declined to appear for a sworn deposition and did not produce all requested nondisclosure agreements. In Washington, bipartisan unanimity is rare enough to be displayed behind museum glass, so a 41-0 vote is worth noticing.
The committee wants testimony and agreements
Black, the former chief executive of Apollo Global Management, paid Jeffrey Epstein at least $158 million for financial services after Epstein had become a registered sex offender. Black has denied involvement in or knowledge of Epstein's crimes and says the committee is exceeding its authority.
He participated in a voluntary interview in June but lawmakers say he stopped answering questions about confidentiality agreements. The committee then subpoenaed him for documents and a deposition. Black sued the panel and did not appear on the rescheduled date.
The full House decides what happens next
Associated Press reported the committee vote on September 15, 2026. If the House approves the contempt referral, the matter can go to the Justice Department.
This is not proof that Black participated in Epstein's abuse, and a congressional investigation must respect due process. It is also reasonable for lawmakers to ask whether money, powerful relationships and private agreements helped shield a convicted offender. Subpoenas cannot become optional accessories available only to people whose lawyers bill by the chandelier.
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