Bill Gates admits ‘grave error’ over Jeffrey Epstein ties in Congress testimony

Bill Gates on Wednesday appeared before the House Oversight Committee for the close-door testimony to clear his position regarding the questionable ties with late convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein.

During the testimony, the Microsoft co-founder told the lawmakers and admitted that meeting Epstein in 2011, knowing he had prior legal issues, was a “grave error of judgement”. But he claims that at that time he failed to understand the extent and grave nature of Epstein’s crimes.

“I recall being aware that Epstein had faced prior legal issues, but I did not fully understand the extent of the crimes he committed. I accepted the introduction without applying the scrutiny I should have,” he told lawmakers.

Democratic Rep. Melanie Stansbury said of Gates’ testimony, as reported by CNN, “He admitted that he knew of Mr. Epstein’s reputation. He admitted that he knew that he [Epstein] had been convicted of sexual crimes, but ultimately, in his words, he viewed this narrow relationship as being an acceptable means to access wealthy donors.”

During an interview with NBC News, Rep. James Walkinshaw, a member of the House Oversight Committee, also discussed what he heard from Microsoft co-founder Bill Gates during a congressional hearing over his relationship with sex offender Jeffrey Epstein.

According to Walkinshaw, Gates admitted that he knew that Epstein had been convicted due to sexual misconduct but “he did not research that and he regretted not researching enough details, calling it a huge massive error of judgement.”

During the congressional hearing, Gates alleged that Epstein tried to pressure him using sensitive information about his personal life, specifically his marital infidelities.

“I learned Epstein had become aware of sensitive information about my personal life, including the fact that I had been unfaithful in my marriage. These affairs had nothing to do with my interactions with Epstein, but they were painful for my family,” Gates said according to his prepared remarks.

Gates also denied that he never witnessed Epstein’s criminal conduct or never visited any of Epstein’s private properties or island. He was never involved in any kind of criminal activity.

“I have never victimized anyone. While he may have sought to foster a personal relationship, I was never interested in that and never reciprocated,” he added.

The limited relationship that he had with Epstein was only due to fundraising efforts. Gates stated that he promised to raise billions of dollars for global health initiatives.

The controversy stems from the millions of Epstein files based on emails, pictures and documents released by the Department of Justice in late January. Gates met with Epstein between 2011 and 2014 to discuss potential philanthropic funding for global health and development.