Bill Gates set to testify before US Congress in Epstein investigation
Bill Gates Set to Appear Before U.S. Congress in Epstein Inquiry
Lawmakers have confirmed that Bill Gates, the co-founder of Microsoft, will testify before the U.S. Congress in June regarding his connections with Jeffrey Epstein, a convicted sex offender. This marks the latest prominent individual to participate in the House Oversight Committee’s probe into Epstein’s alleged misconduct. A spokesperson for Gates expressed enthusiasm for the testimony, stating that the billionaire would “answer all the committee’s questions to support their important work.”
Investigative Context and Document Releases
The Department of Justice released over three million documents earlier this year, shedding light on Gates’ communications with Epstein. However, millions of additional files remain unshared. The release of these records followed legislation signed by former President Donald Trump in November, mandating the disclosure of all materials from Epstein’s investigation. This legal action made public details of Gates’ involvement with the financier.
Testimony and Public Statements
Gates addressed his ties to Epstein during a meeting with staff from his charitable foundation, where he “took responsibility for his actions.” The Gates Foundation noted that the co-founder spoke openly, answering questions with thoroughness. According to
the Wall Street Journal
, Gates apologized to staff, admitting he had two affairs with Russian women that Epstein discovered. He also stated, “I did nothing illicit. I saw nothing illicit.”
Previously, Gates shared his perspective on the relationship during an interview with 9News in Australia. He described his interactions with Epstein as limited to dinners, asserting he never visited the financier’s island. “Every minute I spent with him I regret,” he said, adding, “I apologize that I did that.” A later statement from Gates’ team clarified that the co-founder had not attended social events with Epstein and had no role in any illegal activities linked to him. “Mr. Gates acknowledges meeting Epstein was a serious error in judgment,” the spokesperson added, “but he denies any improper conduct related to the financier’s activities.”
The House Oversight Committee requested Gates’ testimony on March 3, as part of a series of high-profile appearances. Earlier in February, former President Bill Clinton and his wife, former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton, provided statements to the committee. Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick and former Attorney General Pam Bondi are also expected to give testimony in the coming weeks.
