Microsoft co-founder Bill Gates told members of Congress on Wednesday that Jeffrey Epstein attempted to use knowledge of Gates’ marital infidelities as leverage to maintain a relationship with the billionaire and strengthen his own network of influential contacts.

During a transcribed interview before the House Oversight Committee, Gates addressed questions about his past interactions with Epstein, the convicted sex offender whose connections to powerful figures have remained under scrutiny years after his death.

In prepared remarks, Gates stated that he was never aware of any ongoing criminal activity by Epstein during the time they were acquainted.

“I never witnessed nor had any indication that Epstein was engaged in ongoing criminal conduct,” Gates told lawmakers.

Gates also sought to distance himself from some of the locations most closely associated with Epstein, stating that he never visited Epstein’s private island, ranch, or Florida residence.

“I have never victimized anyone,” Gates said. “While he may have sought to foster a personal relationship, I was never interested in that and never reciprocated.”

According to Gates, Epstein attempted to use information about his personal life to keep him within his sphere of influence. Gates argued that the effort ultimately failed but demonstrated how Epstein sought to manipulate relationships with prominent individuals.

“He was unsuccessful in this effort, but it shows some of the ways he tried to leverage his interactions with me to further his agenda,” Gates said.

Gates further acknowledged that he now believes Epstein was attempting to build legitimacy by associating himself with respected public figures and business leaders. Looking back, Gates said his interest in raising funds for global health initiatives clouded his judgment regarding the relationship.

“I see now that he sought to build an image of legitimacy around himself, using connections to reputable and powerful people to deflect scrutiny and attempt to rehabilitate his reputation,” Gates explained. “I was so focused on the possibility of raising funds for global health that I allowed that goal to override my better judgment.”

Rep. Robert Garcia, the ranking Democrat on the House Oversight Committee, later told reporters that Gates’ testimony reflected a broader pattern in which Epstein allegedly used sensitive information and personal connections to influence people around him.

Before entering the Capitol for the interview, Gates expressed support for the committee’s investigation, telling reporters that he hoped his testimony would assist lawmakers in their efforts to seek justice for Epstein’s victims.

The interview is part of a wider congressional inquiry that has included testimony from former associates, survivors, and other individuals connected to Epstein’s network. Committee leaders have also indicated interest in obtaining additional information from Justice Department officials and other witnesses as investigators continue examining the full scope of Epstein’s activities and relationships.

For many Americans, the central question remains whether all relevant facts surrounding Epstein’s network will finally come to light. As Congress continues its investigation, lawmakers from both parties appear determined to pursue answers and ensure that no influential figure is beyond scrutiny. Accountability, transparency, and justice for victims remain at the heart of that effort. And yet, there is a feeling we are not getting all the information we should.