Washington, D.C.: A report from the House Ethics Committee alleges that former Congressman Matt Gaetz spent tens of thousands of dollars on illicit activities, including sex and drugs, during his time in office. The long-anticipated report outlines violations of House rules and conduct standards, including allegations of statutory rape, misuse of campaign funds, and impermissible gifts.
Key Allegations
- Payments for Sex and Drugs
- Gaetz reportedly paid over $90,000 to 12 women for activities linked to sexual relations and drug use between 2017 and 2020.
- The report also includes allegations that Gaetz paid a 17-year-old $400 for sex in 2017, a claim he denies.
- Improper Gifts
- Evidence indicates Gaetz received unauthorized gifts during a 2018 Bahamas trip.
- Lack of Cooperation
- The report accuses Gaetz of obstructing the investigation by deflecting and misleading the committee. He failed to testify despite being subpoenaed.
- Drug Use Allegations
- Witness testimony and evidence link Gaetz to drug use during his congressional tenure.
Legal and Political Repercussions
- No Criminal Charges: The Department of Justice investigated the allegations but chose not to file criminal charges.
- Resignation: Gaetz resigned from Congress last month following his controversial nomination by Donald Trump as Attorney General.
- Ethics Committee Findings: The committee released the report, emphasizing its public-interest value despite Gaetz’s departure from office.
Gaetz’s Response
Gaetz denied the allegations, calling them part of a smear campaign. He criticized the committee for releasing the report during the holiday season and without offering him a formal platform for rebuttal.
In a social media post, Gaetz acknowledged his past lifestyle, describing his 30s as a time of excessive partying and womanizing, though he maintained that none of his actions were criminal.
Fallout
- Trump’s Role: Gaetz’s nomination for Attorney General by Trump faced backlash from Republicans and Democrats alike, forcing him to withdraw within days.
- Post-Congress Career: Gaetz has since signed a deal to join the conservative One America News Network (OAN) and started selling personalized messages on Cameo.
Public and Political Reaction
House Democrats criticized Gaetz and Trump, highlighting what they called poor judgment in appointing Gaetz to a senior role. Rep. Glenn Ivey, a Democrat on the ethics committee, stated that the findings reflect a pattern of unfit nominations by Trump.
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