Bill Gates tells lawmakers meeting Epstein was a 'grave error in judgment' in closed-door hearing

Gates says meeting Epstein was a grave error in judgment during closed-door testimony. He testified voluntarily before the House Oversight Committee and said he should never have met Epstein, but he did not witness ongoing criminal conduct. Gates noted the relationship began in 2011 and continued through at least 2014, ending after realizing Epstein could not deliver philanthropic promises.

Documents reviewed by lawmakers include calendar entries, emails about philanthropic projects, and photos at events Epstein attended. Gates, who chairs the Gates Foundation, has repeatedly denied any wrongdoing or knowledge of Epstein's abuses. Lawmakers, led by James Comer, emphasized survivors' interests and questioned how the government handled the Epstein probe.