Bill Gates set to testify before US Congress in Epstein investigation
Bill Gates set to testify before US Congress in Epstein investigation
Jeffrey Epstein’s legal troubles have brought Microsoft co-founder Bill Gates into the spotlight as he prepares to appear before the U.S. Congress in June. Lawmakers have confirmed the billionaire philanthropist will provide testimony to the House Oversight Committee, which is examining Epstein’s alleged misconduct. The hearing, scheduled for 10 June, marks Gates as the most recent prominent individual to participate in the probe.
Earlier this year, the Department of Justice released over three million documents related to Epstein’s activities, though countless pages remain unseen. This disclosure was made possible by legislation signed by former President Donald Trump in November, which mandated the release of all materials from the investigation. Gates’ connection to Epstein, including their communications, was highlighted in these files.
Gates’ Statements and Apologies
During a meeting with staff from his charitable foundation, Gates addressed his ties to Epstein and “acknowledged his actions,” according to the Gates Foundation. The organization stated he “spoke openly, responding to multiple questions with thoroughness.” A spokesperson later clarified that Gates had never attended social gatherings with Epstein and was not involved in any criminal activities linked to the financier.
“Bill spoke candidly, addressing several questions in detail,” the Gates Foundation said in a statement.
The Wall Street Journal reported that Gates apologized to his foundation staff, admitting to having two affairs with Russian women that Epstein later discovered. He also asserted, “I did nothing illicit. I saw nothing illicit,” regarding Epstein’s alleged crimes. In an Australian interview with 9News, Gates described his interactions with Epstein as limited to dinners and denied visiting the financier’s island.
“Every minute I spent with him I regret and I apologize that I did that,” Gates said.
Additional details from the DOJ’s files indicate Gates’ relationship with Epstein was part of the broader inquiry. The House Oversight Committee requested his testimony on 3 March, following the testimony of former President Bill Clinton and his wife, Hillary Clinton, in February. Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick and former Attorney General Pam Bondi are also scheduled to appear in the coming weeks.
