Microsoft cofounder Bill Gates appeared before the United States House Oversight Committee on June 10, 2026, to testify in a closed-door session regarding his connections to the late convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein.

Gates's testimony comes as the House Oversight Committee continues its investigation into Epstein's extensive network and alleged facilitation of sex trafficking, seeking to understand the extent of his influence and whether powerful figures may have aided him in evading accountability.

In prepared remarks that Gates subsequently shared online, he stated that meeting Epstein was a "grave error in judgment." He emphasized that he "never witnessed nor had any indication that Epstein was engaged in ongoing criminal conduct." Gates also clarified that he never visited Epstein's properties and denied any personal relationship beyond Epstein's attempts to foster one, which Gates claims he never reciprocated.

Committee chair James Comer, a Republican, told reporters that lawmakers intended to question Gates about his relationship with both Epstein and his associate Ghislaine Maxwell. Comer stated that no one was accusing Gates of wrongdoing and expressed appreciation for his voluntary appearance.

The closed-door meeting with Gates was the 15th interview conducted by the House Oversight Committee as part of its ongoing probe. The committee has previously heard testimony from various public figures, including former President Bill Clinton and former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton, as well as business leaders such as former Victoria's Secret CEO Les Wexner. Former Attorney General Pam Bondi also provided an interview last month.

Notably, President Donald Trump, who had socialized with Epstein in the past and has denied knowledge of his crimes, has not yet appeared before the committee. Epstein's past associations and alleged sex-trafficking ring have drawn bipartisan condemnation.

Gates's public statement aimed to distance himself from Epstein's criminal activities, asserting that he was unaware of any such conduct. The testimony is part of a broader effort by the committee to scrutinize Epstein's influence and the potential complicity or negligence of individuals who interacted with him.

While Gates has publicly addressed his past interactions, the full scope of his testimony and the committee's findings from the closed-door session remain undisclosed. The investigation continues to explore the complex web of relationships Epstein cultivated and the implications for those involved.