Bill Gates is publicly addressing his past association with Jeffrey Epstein after the Justice Department released nearly three million pages of new records. The Microsoft founder said he deeply regrets spending time with the late financier. Gates described his decision as “foolish” and said he apologizes for it.
The comments came during an interview with Australia’s 9News, broadcast days after the Justice Department released the latest batch of Epstein-related files. Those records include draft emails Epstein wrote in 2013 that referenced Gates. Gates strongly denied any wrongdoing and rejected claims implied in those drafts.
“Apparently, Jeffrey wrote an email to himself,” Gates said in the interview. “That email was never sent. The email is false.” Gates added that he regrets every interaction he had with Epstein.
What the New Epstein Files Reveal
The documents were released under a transparency law aimed at shedding light on Epstein’s network and government handling of past investigations. According to the Department of Justice, the release includes emails, notes, and internal records collected over years of probes.
Some documents contain unverified claims and draft communications that were never sent. Officials have cautioned that appearing in the files does not imply criminal behavior. The Justice Department has stated that many records reflect raw tips or unproven allegations.
More details on the release can be found on the Department of Justice website at justice.gov and in reporting by The New York Times.
Gates Denies Any Illegal Conduct
Gates said his meetings with Epstein were limited to dinners and discussions about philanthropy. He said he never visited Epstein’s private island in the US Virgin Islands. He also said he never met any women connected to Epstein’s crimes.
“It’s factually true that I was only at dinners,” Gates said. “I never went to the island. I never met any women.” He said Epstein often claimed he could help raise money for global health causes, which Gates now says was a dead end.
Epstein died by suicide in a New York jail in August 2019 while awaiting trial on federal sex trafficking charges. His longtime associate Ghislaine Maxwell was convicted in 2021 and is serving a 20 year prison sentence.
Why the Story Is Resurfacing Now
The new document release has renewed public attention on Epstein’s relationships with powerful figures. Lawmakers from both parties have demanded transparency and accountability. The Justice Department has said more reviews may follow if additional records are identified.
Gates said the renewed attention reinforces his regret. “I was one of many people who regret ever knowing him,” he said. “The more that comes out, the more clear it will be that it had nothing to do with that kind of behavior.”
As the files continue to be reviewed by journalists and the public, officials stress that verified facts matter more than rumors. Gates’ comments mark his clearest public response since the latest Epstein disclosures were made public.