OpenAI board member Larry Summers resigns over Epstein ties

Earlier this week, Larry Summers, a board member of ChatGPT maker Open AI, announced that he’d be stepping back from his duties following the revelation that he corresponded over email with convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. Now, Summers is resigning amidst the controversy.

Summers confirmed his exit from OpenAI in a statement to CNBC. “I am grateful for the opportunity to have served, excited about the potential of the company, and look forward to following their progress,” he wrote. OpenAI also shared a statement, saying “We appreciate his many contributions and the perspective he brought to the Board.”

Thousands of documents related to Jeffrey Epstein were released last week, including a series of emails sent by and to the convicted sex offender. According to Harvard University’s newspaper, The Crimson, Summers contacted Epstein for guidance as he pursued a romantic relationship with a mentee.

Following the revelation, Summers said that “I am deeply ashamed of my actions and recognize the pain they have caused.” Larry Summers originally joined OpenAI’s Board of Directors in 2023 when Sam Altman returned as CEO.

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