Simplify the following text for a Grade 10 native English-speaking person.
Original: In 1998 , it was uncovered that several IOC members had taken bribes from members of the Salt Lake City bid committee for the hosting of the 2002 Winter Olympics , to ensure their votes were cast in favor of the American bid .
Simplified: In 1998 , it was uncovered that several IOC members had taken bribes from members of the Salt Lake City bid committee for the hosting of the 2002 Winter Olympics .