The U.S. House Oversight Committee requested testimony from several high-profile figures — including Bill Gates, Kathryn Ruemmler, and Leon Black — as part of its expanding investigation into connections surrounding Jeffrey Epstein. Committee Chairman James Comer sent letters asking seven individuals to appear before the panel, stating that the committee believes they may possess information relevant to its probe. Lawmakers are examining how Epstein and Ghislaine Maxwell built influence among powerful figures, as well as whether federal authorities mishandled aspects of the investigation into the pair’s alleged sex-trafficking operation. The requests came as Congress continues reviewing large batches of documents released by the Justice Department following legislation requiring disclosure of Epstein-related files.


The documents and testimony requests highlight various previously reported interactions between Epstein and prominent figures. Gates has acknowledged meeting Epstein multiple times between 2011 and 2014 and said he is willing to testify, while maintaining he never witnessed or participated in any illegal activity. Ruemmler, who served as White House counsel under Barack Obama, appeared in emails within the released files and has also indicated she will cooperate with the committee’s inquiry. Black, who previously paid Epstein large sums for tax and estate planning advice, is likewise expected to answer questions about his relationship with the financier. None of the individuals asked to testify have been charged with crimes related to Epstein, but lawmakers say their testimony could help clarify how Epstein cultivated relationships with influential people and how those connections may have intersected with the broader investigation




to contact me:

[email protected]



source:

Bill Gates among 7 asked to testify before House committee on possible Epstein ties - CBS News