**US House Votes to Hold Billionaire Leon Black in Contempt of Congress**
*Published: 16 September 2026, 20:19 BST*
The US House of Representatives has voted to hold billionaire Leon Black in contempt of Congress following his refusal to comply with a subpoena related to the investigation into convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. Black, who has business ties to Epstein, did not appear before the House Oversight Committee as required earlier this month, prompting the committee to take action.
The contempt measure was passed by unanimous consent, reflecting a strong bipartisan stance on the need for accountability in the ongoing investigation. Oversight Committee Chairman James Comer emphasized the importance of transparency and justice for survivors of Epstein's crimes, stating, "No one is above the law."
In response to the contempt vote, Black's legal team condemned the House's decision as "outrageous," arguing that it disregards the ongoing litigation challenging the legality of the committee's actions. They asserted that the contempt ruling was made without consideration of the ethics complaint filed against Chairman Comer.
The matter will now be referred to the US Department of Justice, which will determine whether to pursue criminal charges against Black. Congressman Robert Garcia, the top Democrat on the Oversight Committee, described the contempt vote as a significant step towards justice and accountability, reiterating the committee's commitment to centering the needs of survivors in their efforts.
Black had previously walked out of a voluntary testimony session before the House Oversight Committee in June, after being questioned about nondisclosure agreements (NDAs) he may have signed. This abrupt departure led to the issuance of subpoenas that required him to provide documents and give an on-camera deposition under oath.
The billionaire has publicly stated that he engaged Epstein as a wealth management adviser, claiming to have paid him $158 million for legitimate services. Black has consistently denied any wrongdoing in his dealings with Epstein, asserting that he was unaware of Epstein's criminal activities until the latter was charged with sex trafficking in July 2019.
The investigation into Epstein's network and the individuals connected to him continues to unfold, with lawmakers emphasizing the need for accountability among those who may have facilitated or overlooked his actions. The House's decision to hold Black in contempt marks a notable development in this ongoing inquiry, highlighting the legislative body's determination to pursue justice for victims of Epstein's crimes.
As the situation develops, the attention remains on the actions of the Department of Justice and how they will respond to the House's referral regarding Black's contempt. The implications of this case could extend beyond Black himself, potentially affecting other high-profile individuals connected to Epstein's extensive network.
The outcome of this contempt ruling and the ongoing investigations into Epstein's associates will likely have significant ramifications for accountability in cases of sexual exploitation and abuse, as lawmakers continue to push for transparency and justice in the wake of Epstein's notorious legacy.