Bill Gates Testifies on Jeffrey Epstein: No Personal Ties, but Fundraising Connections

Wed Jun 17 2026 08:35:58 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

Bill Gates speaks before Congress, denying personal relationships with Epstein while revealing fundraising talks for the Gates Foundation.

Bill Gates appeared before the House Oversight Committee, stating he had never personally known Jeffrey Epstein and that the two only engaged in professional fundraising discussions. Gates described Epstein’s attempts to build a personal rapport, which he refused, and emphasized his hope that survivors of Epstein’s crimes would receive justice. The testimony highlighted Gates’ cut‑tied relationship with Epstein after confirming that the former sex‑offender could not deliver on promised donations. Additional allegations in draft emails about legal concerns were denied by Gates. The hearing places Gates among other public figures, such as the Clintons, who testified about their ties to Epstein.

Bill Gates Addresses Congressional Committee on Jeffrey Epstein

On June 10, 2026, Bill Gates appeared voluntarily before the House Oversight Committee to answer questions about his connection to the late Jeffrey Epstein. Gates described the relationship as purely professional, stating he never visited Epstein’s private island, ranch or Florida home and that Epstein "didn’t take any part" in his philanthropic work.

During the closed‑door hearing, Gates asserted that Epstein sought to "foster a personal relationship" but that he was "never interested…and never reciprocated." He also emphasized that he hoped the survivors of Epstein’s crimes would receive justice.

Committee members highlighted that Gates had engaged with Epstein for up to five months in 2014–2015 to explore potential donors for the Gates Foundation. Gates ultimately concluded Epstein could not deliver on the promised fundraising, ending the relationship in 2015.

The talk also shed light on alleged emails attributed to Epstein claiming Gates was involved in illicit activities. Gates denied the allegations and stated he was unaware of any under‑age sexual activity, though he admitted to two affairs with Russian women.

Gates’ testimony comes amid broader congressional scrutiny, with leaders such as Bill Clinton, Hillary Clinton and Robert Garcia also questioned about their ties to Epstein. The Committee’s report will likely probe whether Gates, a leading tech figure, was negligent in assessing Epstein’s background.