Bill Gates appeared voluntarily before the House Oversight Committee in Washington on Wednesday, saying he had no personal relationship with Jeffrey Epstein and was not involved in or aware of Epstein’s criminal conduct.
Gates explained that his interactions with Epstein were limited to discussions about potential fundraising for his Gates Foundation, which never materialised. He told the panel that Epstein had promised donations that did not come through, and when he became aware that the attempts were futile, he severed ties.
The testimony was punctuated by references to thousands of DOJ documents that list Gates’ name alongside Epstein, as well as draft emails that allude to alleged sexual improprieties and other rumors. Gates denied the claims, noting he had no knowledge of Epstein’s illicit activities and had never met any underage girls or white‑pressed any illicit behaviour.
Committee members, including Democrats and Republicans, questioned Gates on how he could remain apparently unaware of Epstein’s background given the public record. Some testified that Epstein used information about Gates’ private lives to pressure him, while others highlighted the broader “friend‑collector” nature of Epstein’s network.
The hearing underscored continued scrutiny of Epstein’s associates, with other high‑profile figures such as Bill Clinton, Hillary Clinton, and Howard Schultz also called before the committee. Gates said he hoped the victims of Epstein’s crimes would receive justice, while his foundation admitted that he had been “one of many people who regret knowing him.”
