Larry Summers said Monday night that he is “deeply ashamed” of his past association with Jeffrey Epstein and will step back from all public appearances as he works to “rebuild trust and repair relationships.” He said he will continue teaching at Harvard despite growing calls for the university to cut ties with him.

Summers admitted he made a “misguided” decision by staying in contact with Epstein. His apology came after the release of House committee emails showing years of personal correspondence — including Summers seeking Epstein’s romantic advice and making sexist remarks.

The revelations prompted Sen. Elizabeth Warren to urge Harvard to distance itself from Summers, saying he “cannot be trusted” with students. Harvard has not responded. The Center for American Progress also confirmed that Summers will leave his fellowship there.

Summers, a former Treasury secretary and top adviser to two presidents, has long been a major figure in economic policy. He previously resigned as Harvard’s president in 2006 after controversies, including comments about gender and science performance.

Documents released last week showed frequent exchanges between Summers and Epstein from 2013 to 2019, discussing politics, world events, and Summers’ personal life — even after Epstein’s abuse of underage girls had been widely exposed in the press.

Some emails showed Epstein coaching Summers on how to handle romantic situations. Other messages revealed offhand comments from Summers about women and intelligence.

Reports also resurfaced claims that Summers asked Epstein to donate to his wife’s nonprofit, sparking frustration among Harvard faculty. One lecturer said his ongoing contact with Epstein reflected a “character flaw.”

Following the latest document release, former President Donald Trump said he asked his attorney general to investigate Epstein’s ties to public figures, including Summers. The Economic Club of New York also postponed an upcoming virtual event featuring Summers, citing a schedule change.

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