Bill Gates testified before the U.S. House Oversight Committee on Wednesday, calling his meetings with Jeffrey Epstein a "grave error in judgment" [1].
The testimony marks a significant public accounting of the Microsoft co-founder's ties to the convicted sex offender. As a global figure in philanthropy, Gates' association with Epstein has long drawn scrutiny regarding the boundaries between professional networking and personal associations.
During the hearing in Washington, D.C., Gates said he initially met Epstein within the context of philanthropic and charitable discussions [1]. However, he said that those meetings were a mistake and denied any romantic or personal relationship with the financier [2].
"I should have never met with Jeffrey Epstein," Gates said [3].
Addressing the nature of their interaction, Gates said to the committee that Epstein wanted a personal relationship, but he never reciprocated [2]. The testimony was part of a broader inquiry by the House Oversight Committee into the networks surrounding Epstein.
Gates described the decision to engage with Epstein as a failure of judgment. He said that his intent was focused on charitable goals, though he acknowledged that the outcome of those associations was an error [1].
Throughout the proceedings, Gates faced questions regarding the extent of the meetings and the timing of his realization that the relationship was problematic. He said that he did not return the personal interest Epstein expressed toward him [2].
“"It was a grave error in judgment."”
This testimony is an attempt by Gates to formally distance himself from Epstein's legacy while acknowledging a lapse in vetting. By testifying under oath, Gates seeks to close a long-standing chapter of public speculation, though the admission of a 'grave error' underscores the reputational risk associated with high-level philanthropic networking.
