Bill Gates ‘has to answer’ for Epstein files mentions, Melinda French Gates says, weeks after record $8 billion donation in divorce settlement | Fortune

Melinda French Gates has called for her ex-husband, Bill Gates, and others mentioned in recently released Epstein files to answer the allegations contained within them. She expressed “unbelievable sadness” regarding the details revealed, emphasizing that “no girl should ever be put in the situation” Epstein created. These comments come weeks after Gates transferred a record $8 billion to French Gates’ new philanthropic organization, Pivotal Philanthropies, as part of their divorce settlement.

French Gates previously expressed her disapproval of Gates’ meetings with Epstein and acknowledged learning of his affair with a Microsoft employee as contributing to the breakdown of their marriage. She noted the disclosures reopen “very, very painful times” and represent a broader societal “reckoning” regarding powerful men enabling abuse.

The $8 billion donation effectively launches Pivotal Philanthropies, focused on gender equality and global health, as the Gates Foundation prepares to wind down operations in 2045. The situation highlights the enduring reputational risks associated with past relationships, even for prominent philanthropists, and positions French Gates as a leader in women’s rights philanthropy with substantial resources.

(Source：Fortune)