The House Ethics Committee has ramped up its investigation into Representative Matt Gaetz (R-FL) amid ongoing allegations of sexual misconduct and drug use. The committee has subpoenaed the Department of Justice (DOJ) for records tied to these allegations, reflecting the seriousness and breadth of the inquiry.
Gaetz has been under scrutiny since allegations surfaced in 2021 that he paid for sex with a minor.
It’s not enough just for us to win. The lobbyists and special interests who have hurt our nation MUST LOSE!
Here are three simple ideas to fix Congress 👇
1. Make donations from lobbyists and PACs illegal to people running for federal office
2. Have a lifetime ban on members… pic.twitter.com/dxtJ4CxMRx
— Rep. Matt Gaetz (@RepMattGaetz) June 17, 2024
Although the DOJ concluded its investigation last year without filing charges, the House Ethics Committee revived its probe in light of the DOJ's findings and ongoing public concern.
The committee's investigation includes accusations that Gaetz engaged in sexual misconduct, used illicit drugs, and shared inappropriate images on the House floor. The Ethics Committee is particularly focused on whether Gaetz violated House rules or committed any offenses warranting disciplinary action or expulsion.
The House Ethics Committee has closed four probes into me, which emerged from lies intended solely to smear me. Instead of working with me to ban Congressional stock trading, the Ethics Committee is now opening new frivolous investigations. They are doing this to avoid the…
— Rep. Matt Gaetz (@RepMattGaetz) June 17, 2024
Despite the DOJ's decision not to prosecute, the Ethics Committee's probe has gained momentum, interviewing new witnesses and gathering additional evidence.
However, the DOJ's reluctance to hand over certain documents has frustrated congressional investigators, prompting the committee to issue multiple subpoenas.
Gaetz, a staunch ally of former President Donald Trump, has denied all allegations and framed the investigation as a politically motivated attack, particularly following his role in ousting former House Speaker Kevin McCarthy. Gaetz's critics, however, argue that the inquiry is a necessary step to ensure accountability and uphold ethical standards in Congress.
As the Ethics Committee's investigation continues, it underscores the broader implications for political accountability and the potential repercussions for Gaetz's career and reputation.
There are Far More Crooked Demowipes in Government than GOP people.👀🐘🇺🇲🍍