Bill Gates Takes “Full Responsibility” In Emotional Town Hall Over Epstein Files

SEATTLE — During the Gates Foundation’s twice-yearly town hall, a recording of which was reviewed by The Wall Street Journal, Bill Gates faced a barrage of internal questions regarding his ties to Jeffrey Epstein. The meeting follows a week of global headlines after the DOJ released millions of pages of documents, leading to the abrupt cancellation of Gates’ keynote at India’s AI Impact Summit.+1

1. The “Huge Mistake”: Ignoring the Red Flags

Gates admitted that he began meeting Epstein in 2011—three years after Epstein’s initial conviction.

• Melinda’s Warning: Gates confessed that his ex-wife, Melinda French Gates, had raised serious alarms about Epstein as early as 2013. “Knowing what I know now makes it… a hundred times worse,” Gates told staff, admitting he continued the relationship for over a year despite those warnings.
• Executive Involvement: He expressed deep regret for “drawing others” into the situation by bringing foundation executives into meetings with the financier.

2. Acknowledging Affairs, Denying Illicit Acts

Addressing the most salacious claims in the DOJ files, Gates was notably transparent about his private life while maintaining a firm legal defense:

• The Affairs: Gates confirmed two past relationships: one with a Russian bridge player and another with a Russian nuclear physicist.
• The Denial: “I did nothing illicit. I saw nothing illicit,” he told employees. He characterized the meetings with Epstein as strictly focused on raising billions for global health, despite Epstein’s alleged claims in draft emails that he “facilitated trysts” for the Microsoft founder.

3. Impact on the Global Stage

The controversy has already begun to hamper Gates’ international diplomatic efforts:

• The India Snub: Just last week, the Indian government reportedly “adjusted” its invitation list for the AI Impact Summit in New Delhi. Gates subsequently withdrew, citing a desire to “ensure the focus remains on the summit’s priorities.”
• The DOJ “Glove” Link: Public interest has also surged regarding references in the files to “the women around Epstein,” whom Gates insists he never spent time with.

Key Takeaways: The Gates Foundation Town Hall