Recent revelations show that economist and former Treasury Secretary Larry Summers maintained a years-long relationship with convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, including disturbingly casual exchanges about women—even after Epstein’s 2008 conviction for soliciting a minor.

The emails, released by Congress as part of a broader investigation into Epstein’s ties to political and financial elites, reveal that Summers sought Epstein’s advice about women, referred to one as “peril,” and joked about being “horizontal.” One email shows Epstein coaching Summers on how to message a woman, using language that trivializes coercion and emotional manipulation.

These are not just poor judgments. They’re disqualifying.

The New York Times, Center for American Progress, and Yale’s Budget Lab have already severed ties with Summers.

But OpenAI—one of the most influential companies shaping the future of artificial intelligence—has remained silent. Summers has served on OpenAI’s board since 2023.

If OpenAI wants the public to trust the future of AI, it cannot have board members linked to a man whose name is synonymous with abuse, trafficking, and the exploitation of minors.

We, the undersigned, demand that OpenAI immediately remove Larry Summers from its board of directors and adopt a clear ethical policy regarding board appointments and affiliations.

Artificial intelligence will shape justice systems, medical decisions, hiring practices, and the safety of millions. Its leadership must reflect values of integrity, accountability, and respect—especially for survivors of exploitation.

Remaining silent while others act isn’t neutrality. It’s complicity.

OpenAI, if you claim to serve humanity, you must remove Larry Summers now.

 Photograph: David Paul Morris/Bloomberg via Getty Images