Washington, D.C.: Former Congressman Matt Gaetz, a staunch ally of Donald Trump and briefly considered for the role of U.S. attorney general, faces damning allegations from the House Ethics Committee. The report accuses Gaetz of paying women for sex, engaging in sexual activity with a minor, and using illegal drugs during his time in Congress.
Key Findings from the Ethics Report
- Payments for Sexual Activity
- The committee found Gaetz made “tens of thousands of dollars” in payments to women between 2017 and 2020.
- Testimony revealed Gaetz paid a 17-year-old girl, referred to as Victim A, $400 for sex in 2017.
- Gaetz allegedly did not verify her age, nor did Victim A disclose she was underage.
- Illegal Drug Use
- Gaetz reportedly used cocaine and ecstasy on multiple occasions during his congressional tenure.
- Unlawful Gifts
- The report highlighted Gaetz’s acceptance of luxury travel exceeding permissible limits, including a 2018 trip to the Bahamas.
- Obstruction of Congress
- The committee accused Gaetz of being uncooperative and attempting to deflect and deter its investigation.
Gaetz’s Defense
- Denial of Wrongdoing: Gaetz has consistently denied the allegations, claiming they are part of a smear campaign.
- Legal Action: He sought a restraining order against the committee, arguing the release of the report was unconstitutional and defamatory.
Political Fallout
- Gaetz resigned from Congress after being nominated by Trump for attorney general, citing the distraction his nomination posed to the administration’s transition.
- The report’s release is unusual given Gaetz’s resignation, but the committee deemed it in the public interest.
Broader Implications
Gaetz’s case has intensified scrutiny on ethical standards for lawmakers and nominees to high-profile positions. The allegations have sparked bipartisan criticism and further polarized public opinion on Trump’s decision-making.
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