Microsoft co-founder Bill Gates admitted today to a “severe error of judgment” regarding his meetings with Jeffrey Epstein during a closed-door congressional hearing. The technology billionaire testified voluntarily before the House Oversight Committee to address his historical ties to the disgraced financier.
In an opening statement published on his GatesNotes website, the American mogul stated firmly that he should never have met with Epstein. However, Gates maintained that he never witnessed nor had any indication of the criminal conduct surrounding the financier.
“I have never harmed anyone,” Gates added in his statement, vehemently denying any personal involvement in or knowledge of illegal activities. He became the latest high-profile figure linked to Epstein to provide formal testimony before the congressional oversight panel. Upon arriving at the Capitol, Gates expressed his hope that his transparency would assist the committee’s vital work in finding justice for victims.
The formal request for his testimony followed the appearance of his name in documents released by the Department of Justice.
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Gates explained that he was originally introduced to Epstein through professional and philanthropic associates who suggested a potential partnership. The tech pioneer was reportedly drawn to Epstein’s claims that he could help secure billions of dollars for global health initiatives.
According to Gates, their professional connection officially ended in 2014 after he concluded that Epstein could not deliver on those fundraising promises. He emphasized that he never visited Epstein’s private island or any of his other infamous properties.
The released Epstein files include calendar entries for scheduled meetings, email correspondence regarding philanthropic endeavors, and photographs of the two at mutual events.
Their relationship began in 2011, three years after Epstein pleaded guilty in Florida to soliciting a minor for prostitution. Gates, who continues to chair the Gates Foundation, has not been charged with any wrongdoing and repeatedly denies knowing about the abuse. Epstein died in a New York jail cell in 2019 while awaiting trial on federal sex trafficking charges.
