Krishnamoorthi, Khanna seek Barclays reply on Staley-Epstein ties

Barclays is facing renewed political scrutiny after three prominent U.S. lawmakers intensified questions over the bank’s handling of former CEO Jes Staley’s relationship with convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. Senator Elizabeth Warren, along with Representatives Raja Krishnamoorthi and Ro Khanna, has formally asked Barclays to explain the steps it took before appointing Staley as chief executive and whether it adequately investigated concerns surrounding his association with Epstein. The lawmakers argue that the bank must clarify how its internal review failed to uncover the full extent of the relationship despite years of reported contact between the two men. Staley, who led Barclays from 2015 until his resignation in 2021, has long maintained that his interactions with Epstein were professional, but regulators later concluded he misled authorities about the nature of those ties. The renewed congressional focus comes as Staley faces additional questioning in the United States, where lawmakers are examining communications and records connected to Epstein’s network. Barclays has defended its actions, stating that it acted on the information available at the time and was later misled by Staley. However, the latest inquiry raises broader concerns about executive vetting, corporate governance, and accountability within global financial institutions. The lawmakers are also seeking greater transparency regarding the bank’s internal investigations and risk assessment procedures for senior leadership appointments. As pressure mounts, Barclays is expected to respond to a detailed list of questions that could shape future discussions on governance standards and oversight in the banking sector. The outcome of the inquiry may also influence ongoing efforts in Congress to increase transparency surrounding Epstein-related records and the connections he maintained with influential figures across business and finance.