WASHINGTON, D.C., June 11: Microsoft co-founder Bill Gates told the U.S. House Oversight Committee on Wednesday that his association with convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein was a “grave error in judgment,” expressing regret for the relationship while maintaining that he was unaware of the full extent of Epstein’s crimes at the time.
Speaking before lawmakers in Washington, Gates said he supports transparency regarding the Epstein case and favors the release of all related records.
“I support the release of all the Epstein files and sincerely hope that, through your efforts and those of others advocating on their behalf, the survivors of Epstein’s crimes can get the justice that they deserve,” Gates said.
Addressing his relationship with Epstein, Gates stated that he never witnessed criminal conduct and had no indication that Epstein was engaged in ongoing illegal activities.
“I never witnessed nor had any indication that Epstein was engaged in ongoing criminal conduct. I never went to his island, his ranch, or his Florida home. I have never victimized anyone,” he said.
Gates explained that he was introduced to Epstein in 2011 through individuals connected to his professional and philanthropic work. According to Gates, Epstein claimed he could help raise billions of dollars from wealthy donors for global health initiatives.
“I recall being aware that Epstein had faced prior legal issues, but I did not fully understand the extent of the crimes he committed. I accepted the introduction without applying the scrutiny I should have,” Gates said.
The billionaire philanthropist said their interactions consisted of a limited number of meetings centered on philanthropy and fundraising opportunities.
“The discussions focused on identifying potential giving structures, such as donor-advised funds, and how to enroll individuals he claimed were interested in making significant contributions,” Gates said, adding that he made it clear he would not play any role in Epstein’s activities or receive compensation.
Gates said he ended contact with Epstein in 2014 after determining that Epstein could not fulfill his promises of attracting major donors.
“At that point, I concluded Epstein would never deliver on his promises. I told him we would go no further and stopped communicating or meeting with him,” Gates said. “No vehicle for charitable giving was ever created, and no funds were raised.”
He also addressed Epstein’s involvement in a personal matter concerning a departing employee from his private office, stating that he neither requested nor wanted Epstein’s participation.
According to Gates, he later learned that Epstein had obtained sensitive information about his personal life, including extramarital affairs, and attempted to use that information to pressure him into resuming contact.
“It was after this that I learned Epstein had become aware of sensitive information about my personal life, including the fact that I had been unfaithful in my marriage,” Gates said.
He added that Epstein was “working to use information about my infidelities—in addition to many lies that he layered on top—to pressure me to re-engage with him.”
Reflecting on the relationship, Gates acknowledged that he should never have met Epstein.
“I should never have met with Epstein in the first place. Based on what I know now, I understand that even if he had delivered the new donors he promised, it would not have justified associating with him,” he said.
Gates argued that Epstein sought legitimacy through connections with influential individuals.
“I see now that he sought to build an image of legitimacy around himself, using connections to reputable and powerful people to deflect scrutiny and attempt to rehabilitate his reputation,” he said.
Expressing regret, Gates said, “Meeting with Epstein was a grave error in judgment and put this work at risk.”
“If the time I spent with Epstein lent him any credibility, I am deeply sorry,” he added.
Gates told lawmakers he remains willing to answer questions regarding his interactions with Epstein and reiterated his hope that survivors of Epstein’s crimes ultimately receive justice. (ANI)
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