What we learned from Bill Gates’ deposition on Epstein
Bill Gates' Testimony on Jeffrey Epstein Sparks Debate
What we learned from Bill Gates - During a private session with the House Oversight Committee, Bill Gates, co-founder of Microsoft and a leading global philanthropist, addressed his personal connection to Jeffrey Epstein. He admitted to making a questionable decision in engaging with Epstein but emphasized he had no prior awareness of the latter’s criminal activities. Gates acknowledged that Epstein attempted to leverage details of his private life to influence him, calling himself "one of many who regret ever knowing him."
"I exercised poor judgment in meeting Epstein, and I believe he used my personal information to exert pressure," Gates stated in his opening remarks.
Lawmakers Analyze Gates' Account
The BBC’s Gary O’Donoghue examined Gates’ testimony, highlighting how it shaped the understanding of the relationship between the tech mogul and Epstein. The hearing revealed discrepancies in Gates’ timeline, prompting questions about the extent of his involvement. Lawmakers appeared divided, with some expressing skepticism over his claims of innocence.
Other News Highlights
Strong winds and torrential downpours, including hail the size of golf balls, battered a city on Monday, forcing emergency responses. Firefighters managed to free trapped individuals after a four-hour operation without any injuries. Meanwhile, in California, a 17-year-old has been crowned champion of the 2026 Scripps National Spelling Bee, following a grueling competition.
A wildfire of 5.4 acres consumed part of the Livermore Valley wine region, though no one was harmed. In New York and New Jersey, officials are investigating claims that fans were misled about ticket availability and seating arrangements. The BBC’s Ros Atkins and Verify team analyzed thousands of presidential posts to uncover potential inconsistencies.
Legal and Health Developments
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The Department of Homeland Security confirmed that detainees receive medical, dental, and mental health services as required. Carl Nasman attended an event where fans discussed World Cup ticket costs and the sport’s cultural impact in the US. Meanwhile, plans for a 250th-anniversary celebration include a cage fight at a new venue, while lunar colonization goals aim for permanent human presence on the Moon by 2032.
Community and Sports Updates
Residents of Orange County evacuated due to a threat from a failing chemical tank. Cristo Fernández, known for his role in the TV series *Ted Lasso*, shared with the BBC that joining a US professional football team is a "dream come true." In military ceremonies nationwide, those who died serving the US are honored. The inaugural Enhanced Games will showcase athletes using performance-enhancing substances, drawing attention to doping practices in sports.