The House Ethics Committee found substantial evidence that former Rep. Matt Gaetz (R-Fla.) engaged in illicit activities, including paying a 17-year-old for sex, using drugs, and obstructing Congress’s investigation. The report follows a years-long probe into Gaetz’s alleged violations of state and federal laws, including prostitution, statutory rape, and improper gift acceptance.
Key Findings:
- A 17-year-old testified she had sex with Gaetz in 2017 and received $400 as payment, though evidence that Gaetz knew her age was inconclusive.
- The committee documented Gaetz’s drug use, including cocaine and ecstasy, and payments for sex with multiple women.
- Gaetz allegedly used his office to secure privileges, including expediting a passport for a personal associate.
Gaetz’s Defense:
Gaetz denied all allegations, claiming he never had sexual contact with a minor and calling the report defamatory. He filed a lawsuit to block its release and criticized the investigation’s standards compared to federal legal processes.
Debate Over Report Release:
Despite Gaetz no longer being a member of Congress, the Ethics Committee released its findings, a rare move criticized by Chair Michael Guest (R-Miss.). Some argued it was necessary due to Gaetz’s recent nomination for Attorney General, which he later withdrew.
The release ends a tumultuous investigation that sparked partisan debate on Capitol Hill.
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