The United States Department of Justice (DOJ) has made a historic disclosure by releasing more than three million pages of documents, images, and videos linked to the investigations of the late sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. This significant release is mandated by the newly enacted Epstein Files Transparency Act, which was passed by the US Congress and signed into law in November 2025, aiming to enhance transparency and accountability in the handling of sensitive cases.
Largest Single Disclosure to Date
During a press conference on Friday, United States Deputy Attorney General Todd Blanche announced that this disclosure includes over 2,000 videos and 180,000 images, marking it as the largest single release of material from the Epstein files to date. He emphasized the department's commitment to complying with the new law while ensuring the protection of sensitive information, particularly concerning victims.
Mentions of High-Profile Figures
The newly released records, primarily consisting of emails from Data Set 12, contain mentions of several high-profile individuals, including former President Bill Clinton, Donald Trump, and Elon Musk, as reported by the Associated Press. These documents shed light on the extensive network and interactions associated with Epstein, providing deeper insights into his activities and connections.
Allegations Against Bill Gates
Among the disclosed records are draft emails attributed to Jeffrey Epstein from 2013, in which he implied that Microsoft co-founder Bill Gates engaged in extramarital sexual relations. According to the New York Times, one draft email described Gates allegedly contracting a sexually transmitted infection after encounters with 'Russian girls' and mentioned attempts to obtain antibiotics that could be secretly provided to Gates' then-wife, Melinda French Gates.
It remains unclear whether Epstein actually sent these emails to Bill Gates in July 2013. The New York Times highlighted the speculative nature of these claims, noting that they are part of a larger set of unverified documents.
Strong Denial from Gates' Spokesperson
A spokesperson for Bill Gates has vehemently rejected the assertions contained in the documents, labeling them as 'absolutely absurd and completely false.' The spokesperson argued that these claims reflect Epstein's frustration and attempts to defame Gates, rather than representing verified facts. This denial underscores the contentious and unsubstantiated nature of the allegations.
In a 2021 interview with CNN's Anderson Cooper, Gates acknowledged meeting Epstein on several occasions in hopes of securing philanthropic funding for the Gates Foundation, a decision he later described as 'a huge mistake.' He sought to downplay his interactions, emphasizing that his intentions were purely charitable, despite the negative associations with Epstein.
Background on the Transparency Act
The documents were disclosed under the Epstein Files Transparency Act, a law enacted after months of public and political pressure. This legislation requires the government to open its files on Epstein, his confidant Ghislaine Maxwell, and related investigations. Lawmakers had expressed dissatisfaction with the Justice Department's limited release last month, prompting officials to take additional time to review newly discovered documents and ensure no sensitive victim information was inadvertently released.
This release represents a pivotal moment in the ongoing efforts to bring transparency to the Epstein case, balancing the need for public disclosure with the protection of privacy and justice for victims.
