Bill Gates admitted to making a significant mistake by meeting Jeffrey Epstein. During a session with lawmakers, the Microsoft co-founder addressed questions regarding his involvement with Epstein.
In a statement to The Associated Press, Gates acknowledged that he should not have met with Epstein. He stated that he never witnessed or suspected any criminal activity. Gates participated voluntarily in a closed-door deposition with the House Oversight Committee.
Committee chairman, Republican Rep. James Comer, requested Gates’ testimony following information released by the Justice Department. The inquiry focuses on understanding government oversights in the Epstein case.
Gates, while arriving at the Capitol, expressed the hope that his testimony may aid in finding justice for Epstein’s victims. However, he declined questions from the press at the session’s end. Gates, leading the Gates Foundation, has consistently denied knowledge of Epstein’s criminal actions.
Democratic members of the committee described Gates as cooperative and helpful, particularly in providing information about other influential individuals associated with Epstein. Nonetheless, questions arose about why Gates continued interactions with Epstein after his 2008 guilty plea for soliciting prostitution from a minor.
According to Rep. Robert Garcia, a top Democrat on the committee, Gates’ interactions aimed at securing financial support for his foundation, even after Epstein’s conviction, were poor judgment.
Gates informed lawmakers that he was introduced to Epstein through business associates. Epstein falsely promised to assist with global health fund-raising. Their meetings began in 2011, three years after Epstein’s Florida guilty plea, as per Justice Department records. Gates confirmed ending contact in 2014 upon realizing Epstein’s promises were void.
I have never victimized anyone. While he may have sought to foster a personal relationship, I was never interested in that and never reciprocated.
The released files contain calendars, emails, and event photos linking Gates and Epstein. Gates denied visiting Epstein’s infamously notorious locations.
Lawmakers varied in their assessments of Gates’ responses. GOP Rep. Tim Burchett described the questioning as intense. Democratic Rep. Raja Krishnamoorthi stated Gates appeared combative. Yet, Garcia noted Gates did provide answers despite some pushback.
The Gates Foundation clarified that a few employees met with Epstein due to his claims of philanthropic support. No joint projects or payments resulted from these meetings.
Both Gates and his former spouse, Melinda French Gates, admitted the Epstein connection strained their marriage.
Ongoing Investigations
Epstein faced federal charges in July 2019 for sex trafficking of minors and related conspiracy. Between 2002 and 2005, the Justice Department accused Epstein of exploiting young girls. He died by suicide in a New York jail awaiting trial.
Released files from the Justice Department highlight associations with numerous prominent figures across various sectors. All implicated persons deny involvement in Epstein’s crimes.
In February, former President Bill Clinton testified regarding a historic association with Epstein. The former president clarified that his ties with Epstein ceased before the 2008 guilty plea. Clinton, like Gates, has not faced any allegations of wrongdoing in connection with Epstein.
The committee intends to gather further testimonies from notable figures, including attorney Alan Dershowitz. Discussions with the Justice Department are ongoing regarding Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche’s potential input.
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