Bill Gates appeared voluntarily before the House Oversight Committee on June 10, 2026, to clarify his connection to the convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. Gates stated that he never visited Epstein’s island, ranch, or Florida home and never used Epstein to further his career.
The billionaire accused Epstein of seeking personal friendship and using information about Gates’ private affairs to exert pressure. Gates rejected any personal relationship, telling the panel that he had no intent to reciprocate Epstein’s outreach.
The testimony also highlighted the failures of fundraising: in 2014 Gates realized that Epstein’s proposed donor group would not produce the promised contributions, leading him to end any further interaction.
Republican members noted that Gates was aware Epstein could be convicted of a “horrific crime” yet continued to engage with him for potential donations. Meanwhile, Gates assured lawmakers that survivors of Epstein’s crimes could obtain justice.
Additional inquiries focused on how Gates, a true technologist, could remain unaware of widely publicized details regarding Epstein’s criminal background. Gates reiterated that he had never allowed Epstein to be involved with or compensated before the foundation’s work.
The hearing underscores the broader scrutiny towards powerful figures who interacted with Epstein. Gates’ testimony clarifies that he tried to sever ties when it became clear that benefitting from Epstein’s network was impossible.
