House Ethics Committee quietly voted to release Matt Gaetz ethics report
CBSDec 13, 2024
House Ethics Committee Will Release Gaetz Report
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Above: Former US Rep. Matt Gaetz Image copyright: Jacek Boczarski/Contributor/Anadolu via Getty Images
The Facts
It has been reported that the US House Ethics Committee secretly voted this month to release its investigative report on former Rep. Matt Gaetz (R-Fla.), reversing its previous decision to keep the document sealed. The report will be released at the end of the current Congressional term.
The investigation examined allegations of sexual misconduct, illicit drug use, misuse of campaign funds, and potential bribery, stemming from an earlier probe. The Dept. of Justice (DOJ) investigated similar allegations against Gaetz but didn't file criminal charges.
The decision to release the ethics report came after Gaetz withdrew from consideration as Pres.-elect Donald Trump's attorney general nominee. Gaetz also resigned from Congress.
The Spin
Right narrative
This investigation has always been a politically motivated witch hunt, which was proven when the DOJ failed to produce any criminal charges. The report relies on non-credible witnesses, and allowing its release without permitting Gaetz to properly defend himself shows that mainstream politicians — with an axe to grind against Gaetz — want to smear him.
Left narrative
The public has a right to know the findings of a thorough congressional investigation into serious allegations of misconduct by Gaetz. It's important to know what Gaetz did or didn't do, considering his continued prominence in public life and connection to high-level political appointments and elected officials.
