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Jimmy Williams
The House Ethics Committee met behind closed doors Wednesday but could not agree on whether to release a report detailing its yearslong investigation into former Rep. Matt Gaetz, R-Fla., who is President-elect Donald Trump’s nominee for attorney general.
The report reportedly delves into allegations of sexual misconduct, illicit drug use, improper gifts, and obstruction tied to Gaetz’s time in Congress. Gaetz has denied all allegations against him.
Divided Committee, Uncertain Outcome
After more than two hours of deliberation, Rep. Susan Wild, D-Pa., the panel’s top Democrat, confirmed that the committee took a vote but failed to reach a simple majority needed for action. The committee plans to reconvene on December 5 to revisit the matter.
“The lack of consensus is disappointing,” Wild told reporters. “This report contains significant findings that the public deserves to know.”
Rep. Michael Guest, R-Miss., the panel’s Republican chair, expressed reservations about releasing what he called “unfinished work product.” He noted the report has not undergone a full review process, raising questions about whether it can be fairly assessed.
Pressure from Congress
As Senate Republicans prepare to oversee Gaetz’s confirmation hearings next year, lawmakers on both sides of the aisle have called for transparency. Senate Judiciary Committee member Kevin Cramer, R-N.D., said, “The easiest and most appropriate step would be to release the report.”
House Democrats are pushing for a floor vote to force its release. Reps. Steve Cohen, D-Tenn., and Sean Casten, D-Ill., introduced resolutions demanding the Ethics Committee preserve all evidence and make the report public. Such a move would require a House majority vote, possibly as soon as Thursday.
Wild pointed to precedent, citing past instances where the committee released reports on members who had resigned, including former Reps. Bill Boner, D-Tenn., and Buz Lukens, R-Ohio.
Gaetz Allegations and Senate Dynamics
The Ethics Committee has investigated Gaetz over allegations including paying women for sex and engaging in sexual relations with a minor. Attorney John Clune, representing two women involved in the case, said his clients have provided testimony and documentation to the committee.
“They want the American people to know the truth,” Clune said. He added that one woman claimed to have witnessed Gaetz having sex with a 17-year-old at a Florida party in 2017. Gaetz has denied knowing her age at the time.
Senate Judiciary Committee Republicans remain split over Gaetz’s nomination. While Sen. Marsha Blackburn, R-Tenn., expressed strong support after meeting with Gaetz, others have withheld judgment pending further vetting.
Speaker Johnson Opposes Release
House Speaker Mike Johnson, R-La., a Trump ally, has argued against releasing the report, citing the committee’s lack of jurisdiction over former members. “Matt Gaetz is not a member of this body anymore,” Johnson said, emphasizing the importance of adhering to precedent.
Despite this, Wild insisted that the Senate at least should receive the report as it considers Gaetz’s confirmation. “There is no reason for this to remain hidden,” she said.
Trump Stands by Gaetz
President-elect Trump has remained firm in his support for Gaetz, with his team actively lobbying senators to back the nomination. Trump called Gaetz a “maverick” who would lead a Justice Department overhaul.
Vice President-elect JD Vance joined Gaetz on Capitol Hill Wednesday, introducing him to key Senate Republicans. While Trump’s pick faces obstacles, Blackburn’s post-meeting endorsement highlights growing GOP backing.
“We need strong leadership at Justice,” Blackburn wrote on X. “Matt Gaetz is ready to deliver.”
