Bill Gates Addresses Epstein Ties at Gates Foundation Meeting

The Microsoft co-founder apologized to staff over his relationship with the convicted sex offender.

Published on Feb. 25, 2026

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Bill Gates, the philanthropist and co-founder of Microsoft, addressed his connection to convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein during a town hall meeting of his nonprofit Gates Foundation. According to reports, Gates spoke candidly about the issue, took responsibility for his actions, and apologized to his staff over the relationship.

Why it matters

Gates' ties to Epstein have attracted increased attention since the Justice Department released millions of documents related to its investigation of the late financier. The revelations have created problems in Gates' marriage and raised questions about his judgment and the impact on his philanthropic work.

The details

The Gates Foundation said in a statement that 'Bill spoke candidly, addressing several questions in detail.' Gates has not been accused of any wrongdoing in connection to Epstein, but has acknowledged meeting with him to discuss philanthropy and believing Epstein could help raise money. However, Gates has said he 'regrets every minute' he spent with Epstein and apologized for the relationship.

  • On Tuesday, Gates addressed his Epstein ties at a town hall meeting of the Gates Foundation.
  • Earlier this month, Gates told Australia's 9News that 'Every minute that I spent with him I regret, and I apologize that I did that.'

The players

Bill Gates

A philanthropist and the co-founder of Microsoft who addressed his connection to convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein at a Gates Foundation meeting.

Jeffrey Epstein

A convicted sex offender whose ties to Bill Gates have attracted increased attention.

Melinda French Gates

The ex-wife of Bill Gates who said her former husband must 'answer to those things' when asked about his ties to Epstein.

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What they’re saying

“Every minute that I spent with him I regret, and I apologize that I did that.”

— Bill Gates (9News)

“Bill spoke candidly, addressing several questions in detail.”

— Gates Foundation spokesperson (Gates Foundation)

“He must answer to those things.”

— Melinda French Gates (Wall Street Journal)

What’s next

The Gates Foundation has not provided any details on what specific actions, if any, Bill Gates will take in response to the revelations about his ties to Jeffrey Epstein.

The takeaway

Bill Gates' relationship with the convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein has created significant reputational damage and personal turmoil for the Microsoft co-founder. While Gates has apologized and taken responsibility, the full impact on his philanthropic work and personal life remains to be seen.