Larry Summers resigns from OpenAI as Epstein controversy intensifies

Larry Summers has resigned from the OpenAI board just days after leaked emails reignited questions about his past communication with Epstein.

In a brief statement, OpenAI said it respected his decision and acknowledged the expertise he brought during his tenure.

The controversy escalated last week after congressional documents revealed Summers exchanging messages with Epstein in 2019, including a conversation that critics called troubling and inappropriate.

As the backlash grew, several institutions began distancing themselves from the economist. 

Summers, who also serves as a Harvard professor, announced he would be pausing his public engagements and accepting responsibility for the fallout.

In a follow-up statement issued by his spokesperson, he confirmed that stepping down from OpenAI aligned with his broader decision to withdraw from public-facing roles.

For those unversed, Summers originally joined the board in 2023 during a period of major restructuring at the company following Sam Altman’s dramatic reinstatement.

Moreover, the New York Times has opted not to renew his contributor contract, and multiple policy organisations have suspended their affiliations with him.

With his resignation from OpenAI, Summers closes a significant chapter as the Epstein controversy shows no sign of fading.