Bill Gates set to testify before US Congress in Epstein investigation
Bill Gates to Appear Before U.S. Congress in Epstein Inquiry
Microsoft’s co-founder, Bill Gates, is scheduled to appear as a witness in a congressional hearing on June 10, according to lawmakers. This marks his participation in the ongoing investigation into the misconduct of Jeffrey Epstein, a former financier convicted of sexual offenses. Gates, a prominent philanthropist, has joined the list of notable figures testifying before the House Oversight Committee.
A spokesperson for Gates told the BBC that the billionaire is eager to address the committee’s inquiries to assist in their examination of Epstein’s activities. Despite his involvement in the case, Gates has not been formally accused of wrongdoing by any of the sex offender’s victims. His inclusion in the investigative files does not suggest criminal behavior, though the documents reveal details about his communications and relationship with Epstein.
Epstein Investigation Expands
The Department of Justice released over three million documents earlier this year, shedding light on Epstein’s dealings. However, millions of additional pages remain unseen. This transparency was prompted by a law signed in November by former President Donald Trump, which mandated the disclosure of all materials from Epstein’s case. The exposure of Gates’ ties to Epstein followed this directive.
Gates addressed his connection to the financier during a meeting with staff from his charitable foundation, where he “took responsibility for his actions,” according to a foundation statement. The Wall Street Journal noted that Gates apologized to his team, revealing he had two affairs with Russian women that Epstein later discovered. He described his relationship with Epstein as one where “I did nothing illicit. I saw nothing illicit,” the publication reported.
Earlier this year, Gates spoke to 9News in Australia, stating his interactions with Epstein were limited to dinners and that he never visited the sex offender’s island. “Every minute I spent with him I regret and I apologize that I did that,” Gates said. A subsequent statement from his spokesperson clarified that Gates had not attended parties with Epstein and was not involved in any illegal activities linked to him.
The House Oversight Committee requested Gates’ testimony on March 3, as part of a series of high-profile appearances. Former President Bill Clinton and his wife, Hillary Clinton, had already testified in February. Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick and former Attorney General Pam Bondi are also expected to provide statements in the coming weeks.