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Congressional Ethics Committee Faces Pressure Over Matt Gaetz Investigation

The congressional ethics committee is under increasing scrutiny as it deliberates the release of its findings regarding allegations of sexual misconduct involving Matt Gaetz, who has been nominated by Donald Trump for the position of Attorney General of the United States.

During a closed-door session on Wednesday, House committee members met for two hours, but failed to reach a consensus on whether to publish a report concerning their investigation into Gaetz, the former Florida congressman. His nomination has stirred controversy, further intensifying the calls for transparency.

Democratic Representative Susan Wild confirmed to the press that despite a vote being taken, the committee remained divided along party lines. “There was no consensus on this issue,” she stated, and mentioned that another meeting is scheduled for December 5. It remains uncertain if the report will be available prior to that date, especially since Gaetz stands by claims of innocence.

The urgency surrounding the ethics committee’s findings has grown, as Senate members begin to engage with Gaetz in preparation for an upcoming confirmation hearing. “They’ve been going great,” Gaetz remarked about these meetings. “Senators have been giving me a lot of good advice. I’m looking forward to a hearing.”

When Gaetz abruptly left the House around the time of Trump’s nomination, doubts regarding the report’s release surfaced. His resignation places him outside congressional jurisdiction, meaning the ethics committee’s scope is limited to current House members.

Michael Guest, the ethics committee Chairman and a Republican, expressed reservations about releasing the report, indicating that it is still being reviewed. He mentioned to CNN that they would deliberate on potentially making it public or passing it directly to the Senate Judiciary Committee, although it’s unclear if the report will leave the committee at all.

The atmosphere outside the meeting room was charged, with numerous reporters awaiting updates, while most lawmakers chose to remain tight-lipped as they exited the discussions.

In an interview afterward, Congressman Mark DeSaulnier expressed hope that the committee would arrive at a satisfactory resolution. Gaetz, at 42 years old, is known for his contentious presence in Washington and cable news, strongly supporting Trump and playing a significant role in the removal of Republican House Speaker Kevin McCarthy.

Although some former colleagues of Gaetz, including Speaker Mike Johnson, have expressed support for his nomination, citing his reformist attitude, he continues to face serious allegations. Prior investigations by the US Justice Department included claims of a sexual relationship with a minor and violations of sex trafficking laws, though no charges were filed following the closure of the case.

The ethics committee publicly announced an inquiry into several allegations against Gaetz last June, which included claims of sexual misconduct, drug use, and misuse of his position for personal gain. Reports indicate that two women testified that Gaetz paid them for sex, with one claiming to have witnessed him engage in sexual acts with a minor in 2017.

Gaetz has persistently denied any allegations, asserting that they are politically motivated. He stated on X, “Lies were weaponised to try to destroy me,” claiming that those lies have led to action against others, not him.

As the confirmation process unfolds, Trump remains steadfast in his support for Gaetz. Transition spokesperson Alex Pfieffer emphasized that “Matt Gaetz will be the next attorney general” and that he would work to cease the perceived weaponization of the justice system.

Across party lines, senators have voiced the importance of accessing the ethics report. Democratic Senator Dick Durbin, who leads the Senate Judiciary Committee, insisted that the findings be preserved and shared, arguing it is essential for the confirmation process and the Senate’s constitutional duties regarding advice and consent.

Senator Chuck Grassley, a Republican member of the Judiciary Committee, highlighted the need for transparency, stating that timely consideration of Gaetz’s nomination necessitates openness regarding the ethics committee’s findings.

Source
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