Bill Gates claims his Epstein ‘record is clear’

The tech mogul says past “mistakes” should not undermine his warnings on AI and global health In a sweeping essay on the coming “turbulent AI era,” Microsoft co-founder Bill Gates has argued that the technology could become either “the greatest equalizer ever invented” or “the worst source of injustice,” warning that governments remain dangerously unprepared for the social and economic upheaval ahead.The intervention comes with an acknowledged “potential bias,” as Gates himself concedes that he has “benefited enormously” from the tech industry, retains financial ties to the sector, and works with Microsoft and other AI companies through the Gates Foundation.His association with convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein is another source of reputational baggage that Gates addressed in an interview with Axios published on Wednesday, insisting people should judge him “on the record” rather than let the controversy overshadow his warnings on AI and global health. Gates called the association a “huge mistake,” insisting his dealings with Epstein were limited and motivated by an attempt to raise money for philanthropic projects. He began meeting Epstein in 2011, despite knowing of his previ...