Photo: Alamy
Microsoft founder Bill Gates is scheduled to testify Wednesday in a closed-door session before the House Oversight Committee regarding his past relationship with convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein.
Gates is one of several high-profile figures called to speak with lawmakers investigating Epstein’s network and associations. Others who have appeared before the committee include Secretary of Commerce Howard Lutnick, former Attorney General Pam Bondi and former President Bill Clinton.
Lawmakers are examining the nature of Epstein’s relationships with influential political, business and philanthropic figures.
Gates’ association with Epstein has drawn scrutiny for years because the meetings occurred after Epstein pleaded guilty in 2008 to charges involving solicitation of prostitution with a minor.
“I was foolish to spend time with him,” Gates previously said in an interview. “I was one of many people who regret ever knowing him.”
The Justice Department’s document releases related to Epstein included references to Gates, including photographs reportedly showing Gates at Epstein’s estate in 2015.
Draft emails from 2013 also included claims by Epstein that Gates had contracted a sexually transmitted infection. A spokesperson for Gates denied the allegations.
“While Mr. Gates acknowledges that meeting with Epstein was a serious error in judgment, he unequivocally denies any improper conduct related to Epstein and the horrible activities in which Epstein was involved,” the spokesperson said.
Gates has maintained that his interactions with Epstein were limited to meetings and dinners connected to philanthropic discussions. The Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation has denied any financial relationship or partnership involving Epstein.
“The foundation did not pursue any collaboration with Epstein and no fund was ever created,” the foundation said in a statement.
House Oversight Chairman James Comer said additional witnesses connected to Epstein are expected to testify in the coming weeks, including Leon Black, Doug Band and Kathy Ruemmler.
The committee said Gates’ testimony will take place behind closed doors, and transcripts are not expected to be released immediately.