House Ethics Committee Investigation into Representative Matt Gaetz
The House Ethics Committee has been conducting an investigation into allegations surrounding Representative Matt Gaetz, focusing on claims of sexual misconduct and potential illicit drug use. According to a Republican official familiar with the situation, the committee was poised to vote on releasing a highly critical report concerning Mr. Gaetz on Friday. This development came just two days after President-elect Donald J. Trump appointed Mr. Gaetz as attorney general.
Mr. Gaetz, a Republican representative from Florida, unexpectedly resigned from his House seat late Wednesday, which effectively brought an end to the ethics investigation that had loomed over him for years. The official revealed that during the committee’s inquiry, Mr. Gaetz had consistently provided combative responses to their questions, thus prolonging the fact-finding process for several months.
Furthermore, the publication of the committee’s findings faced additional delays due to a House rule that prohibits the release of negative reports close to an election. The official, who wished to remain anonymous due to the sensitive nature of the investigation, shared these insights.
With Mr. Gaetz’s departure from Congress, the committee no longer holds jurisdiction to continue its investigation into his conduct. It remains unclear whether the committee will still proceed with the release of its findings. Tom Rust, the chief counsel and staff director for the committee, declined to provide any comments on the matter.
The anticipated release of the report on Friday was previously reported by Punchbowl News. The selection of Mr. Gaetz as attorney general has left many Republicans in Congress astonished. Known for his contentious role in politics, Mr. Gaetz notably spearheaded the successful campaign to oust former Speaker Kevin McCarthy of California, making him one of the most controversial figures within his own party.
For two years, the Justice Department investigated allegations suggesting that Mr. Gaetz had engaged in an inappropriate sexual relationship with a 17-year-old girl, raising concerns about potential violations of federal sex trafficking laws. Ultimately, the department concluded its investigation last year without filing any charges against him.
