House Democrat: Former UK ambassador ‘unable to appear’ for interview in congressional Epstein inquiry
The Hill
by Sophie BramsFebruary 19, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
House Democrat Rep. Robert Garcia, ranking member of the House Oversight and Government Reform Committee, revealed that former UK Ambassador Peter Mandelson has declined an invitation to appear before Congress as part of their investigation into Jeffrey Epstein’s crimes. This decision comes amid growing scrutiny of Epstein’s connections to powerful individuals, including foreign officials. Mandelson, a prominent figure in British politics, had been asked to provide insight into his interactions with Epstein and other relevant parties.
The committee is conducting an inquiry to examine Epstein’s alleged influence on international leaders and institutions, as well as the broader implications of his criminal activities. While Mandelson has yet to explain why he declined the invitation, Garcia emphasized the importance of transparency in such matters. The committee continues to explore ways to gather information from other sources, including documents and testimonies, to shed light on Epstein’s operations.
This development highlights the ongoing challenges faced by congressional investigators as they navigate a complex web of international connections tied to Epstein. Mandelson’s refusal underscores the difficulty of holding high-ranking officials accountable for their past actions, particularly when those actions intersect with global diplomacy. The committee’s work is expected to continue drawing attention from both political and media circles, as it delves deeper into the ties between Epstein and influential figures.
For readers interested in politics, this situation highlights the delicate balance between diplomatic immunity and accountability, as well as the broader implications of Epstein’s crimes on international relations. The inquiry also raises questions about how governments handle cases involving individuals with significant connections to powerful institutions. As the investigation unfolds, it is likely to spark further debates about transparency, justice, and the role of influential figures in global affairs.
In summary, Mandelson’s refusal to appear before Congress underscores the challenges faced by investigators as they seek to uncover Epstein’s influence on international leaders. The inquiry continues to evolve, with significant implications for politics and diplomacy. For those following developments in US-UK relations and the ongoing efforts to hold powerful individuals accountable, this case serves as a critical reminder of the complexities involved in addressing such high-profile scandals.
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Originally published on The Hill on 2/19/2026