The House Ethics Committee has secretly voted to release a report on the conduct of former Rep. Matt Gaetz, according to multiple sources with knowledge of the matter. The report is expected to be made public after the House’s final day of votes this year, despite earlier plans to shelve it.
The investigation concluded a years-long probe into allegations against Gaetz, including claims of sexual misconduct, drug use, and misuse of campaign funds. Gaetz has denied all allegations and characterized the investigation as a “witch hunt.”
The committee’s change of heart on releasing the report suggests that some Republicans on the panel have shifted their stance, as they previously voted along party lines to withhold the report. The move is rare, as it is typically only done in exceptional circumstances, such as when a member has left Congress.
Gaetz, who withdrew his name from consideration for the attorney general position, is still active in GOP politics. He has denied all allegations and has expressed no intention to return to Congress next year. Instead, he plans to focus on fighting for President Trump and joining the One America News Network in January.
Speaker Mike Johnson has publicly disagreed with the decision to release the report, arguing that Gaetz is no longer a member of Congress and the issue is resolved. However, the committee’s decision to release the report suggests that some Republicans have found new evidence or have reevaluated the allegations against Gaetz.
