Larry Summers, the former U.S. Treasury Secretary, has resigned from the board of OpenAI and is stepping away from his teaching role at Harvard University amid intensified scrutiny over his past communications with convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. This move follows the release of emails that have sparked widespread criticism and investigations into his conduct.
The resignations were announced on November 19, 2025, as Summers stated he is stepping back from all public commitments to address the fallout from the email revelations. In a statement, he expressed gratitude for his time at OpenAI and acknowledged the need to distance himself from ongoing controversies. Simultaneously, Harvard confirmed he would not finish the semester as an instructor and is taking immediate leave from his directorship at the Mossavar-Rahmani Center for Business and Government.
The email disclosures came from a House committee that released over 20,000 documents last week, detailing years of personal correspondence between Summers and Epstein. These exchanges included instances where Summers made sexist remarks and sought romantic advice, raising ethical concerns about his judgment. The release has fueled public and political outrage, with calls for accountability from figures like Senator Elizabeth Warren, who urged Harvard to sever ties with him.
Harvard University has launched an investigation into Summers’ relationship with Epstein, reflecting the institution’s commitment to addressing the scandal. A university spokesperson emphasized that the review will evaluate any necessary actions, while Summers’ spokesman noted that his co-teachers will handle remaining classes. This isn’t the first time Summers has faced controversy; he resigned as Harvard president in 2006 under pressure, and his extensive career includes roles in the Clinton and Obama administrations.
At OpenAI, where Summers joined the board in 2023 during a turbulent period that included CEO Sam Altman’s brief ouster, the company respected his decision to resign and appreciated his contributions. His departure highlights the growing ethical pressures in the AI industry, where leaders are increasingly scrutinized for their personal and professional associations. Summers also resigned from Santander’s international advisory board, underscoring the broad impact of the scandal on his corporate affiliations.
Politically, the situation has drawn attention from former President Donald Trump, who called for a Department of Justice investigation into Epstein’s connections, including with Summers. Congress has also moved to release more Epstein files, signaling broader implications for accountability in high-profile circles. The bipartisan push for transparency reflects ongoing public demand for clarity on Epstein’s network and its ties to influential figures.
Looking ahead, the investigations at Harvard and potential legal actions could reshape Summers’ legacy and influence how institutions handle similar scandals. His decision to step back may set a precedent for accountability, but it also leaves questions about the long-term effects on OpenAI and Harvard’s reputations. As the story develops, further disclosures and institutional responses will likely continue to unfold, emphasizing the need for ethical vigilance in leadership roles.
