House Ethics Committee accuses Gaetz of ‘regularly’ paying for sex, including with 17-year-old girl

The House Ethics Committee has accused former Congressman Matt Gaetz of paying for sex, including with a 17-year-old girl, and engaging in illicit drug use during his time in office. A bipartisan investigation, detailed in a 37-page report, alleges Gaetz violated multiple laws and House rules, including those prohibiting prostitution, statutory rape, and obstruction of Congress. The nearly five-year inquiry culminated in a vote to release the findings despite resistance from Republican lawmakers, including House Speaker Mike Johnson.

Gaetz, who denies the allegations, resigned from Congress in November after being nominated as Attorney General by President-elect Donald Trump. His resignation placed him outside the committee’s jurisdiction, but Democrats pushed to release the report, citing public interest. Gaetz has filed a lawsuit to block its release, arguing the findings are defamatory and unconstitutional. The report’s release marks an uncommon move by the Ethics Committee, which typically does not publish findings about former members. This investigation has drawn significant attention, particularly given Gaetz’s prior role in Congress and his controversial nomination.

Source: AP News