Poli Alert Politics & Civics
Related Articles
The House Ethics Committee has voted to release a long-awaited report detailing its investigation into allegations of misconduct by former Representative Matt Gaetz, R-Fla.
The bipartisan decision, made earlier this month, marks a rare move for the often-secretive panel, which traditionally refrains from publishing findings after a member’s resignation.
The report is expected to delve into accusations that Gaetz engaged in sexual misconduct with minors and illicit drug use during his tenure in Congress. The investigation, which lasted nearly four years, remained unresolved when Gaetz left office earlier this year.
“This is a significant step for transparency in Congress,” a person familiar with the committee’s decision said, speaking anonymously because they were not authorized to discuss the vote publicly. The panel, composed of five Republicans and five Democrats, has faced pressure from both parties to address the allegations publicly.
Last month, the committee voted along party lines not to release the report. However, mounting calls for accountability, particularly from Democratic lawmakers, appear to have influenced this reversal. A House floor vote earlier this month to force the report’s publication failed, with nearly all Republicans opposing the motion.
Gaetz, who was once President-elect Donald Trump’s top choice for attorney general, responded angrily to the decision. “It’s embarrassing, though not criminal, that I probably partied, womanized, drank, and smoked more than I should have earlier in life,” he posted on X, formerly known as Twitter. “I live a different life now.”
Republican leaders, including House Speaker Mike Johnson, have opposed releasing the report, citing concerns about setting a “terrible precedent” by publishing findings on a former member. Johnson noted that the Justice Department dropped its separate investigation into Gaetz last year without filing charges.
However, critics argue the report is necessary for public accountability. “The American people deserve to know the truth, even if the member is no longer in office,” said Rep. Jamie Raskin, D-Md.
Gaetz’s former ally, Joel Greenberg, played a key role in the allegations. Greenberg, a former Florida tax collector, pleaded guilty in 2021 to charges including sex trafficking of a minor, admitting he facilitated payments for encounters involving an underage girl.
The Ethics Committee’s findings could shed light on Gaetz’s actions and the broader implications for congressional oversight.
