Bill Gates testifies Epstein tried to pressure him using private information about marriage

Bill Gates told lawmakers that Jeffrey Epstein attempted to blackmail him over his personal life during a closed-door congressional hearing on Wednesday, June 10, as part of an ongoing House Oversight Committee investigation into the late financier’s network and contacts.

The Microsoft co-founder, 70, said Epstein sought to exploit knowledge of Gates’ past infidelity in an effort to pressure him into maintaining contact, calling the encounter part of a broader pattern of manipulation.

Epstein allegedly used personal information to apply pressure

In prepared remarks shared with Congress, Gates said Epstein became aware of “sensitive information” about his marriage to Melinda French Gates, including extramarital affairs that had strained his family life.

“These affairs had nothing to do with my interactions with Epstein, but they were painful for my family,” Gates said, adding that Epstein attempted to use the information, along with “many lies that he layered on top,” to coerce him into re-engaging.

“As the public can now see, based on what has been released in the files, Epstein was working to use information about my infidelities… to pressure me to re-engage with him,” he said. “He was unsuccessful in this effort.”

Gates added that while Epstein’s attempt at leverage failed, it demonstrated how the disgraced financier allegedly manipulated relationships for his own advantage.

The tech billionaire also used his testimony to reiterate regret over his past association with Epstein, stating plainly that he “should never have met” the convicted sex offender.

Gates said he never witnessed or had any indication of criminal activity during their interactions, and emphasized that his contact with Epstein was tied to philanthropy discussions rather than any illicit conduct.

Gates, who has not been accused of wrongdoing, has previously acknowledged meeting Epstein in the context of seeking support for global health initiatives, while later describing those interactions as a mistake.

Congressional scrutiny continues

The House Oversight Committee, led by Rep. James Comer, invited Gates to testify as part of its broader investigation into Epstein’s network and potential influence on prominent figures.

Lawmakers have cited publicly released documents and Department of Justice materials suggesting Gates may have relevant information for the inquiry.

A spokesperson for Gates said he “welcomes the opportunity to appear before the Committee” and intends to cooperate fully with questions.

Gates’ past association with Epstein has faced renewed scrutiny following the release of emails and documents referencing their interactions.

Gates has denied claims made in some of those materials, including allegations tied to misconduct, while acknowledging past personal affairs during his marriage.

In earlier public comments, Gates has apologized for meeting Epstein and said he regrets the association, while maintaining he did not engage in or witness any illegal activity.

The Gates Foundation has also launched an external review into its historical interactions connected to Epstein, with findings expected later this year.

The congressional inquiry remains ongoing.