House Ethics Report Accuses Former Rep. Matt Gaetz of Sexual Misconduct, Drug Use, and Violating Florida's Statutory Rape Law

Dec 23, 2024, 11:00 PM

The House Ethics Committee has released a report accusing former Florida Congressman Matt Gaetz of engaging in sexual misconduct and illicit drug use during his time in Congress. The report alleges that Gaetz paid women, including a 17-year-old girl, for sex and used drugs such as cocaine and ecstasy. It details payments totaling more than $90,000 to 12 women between 2017 and 2020, which the committee believes were likely connected to sexual activity or drug use. The committee also found evidence that Gaetz had sex with the minor in 2017, and continued to engage in commercial sex with her after she turned 18. Gaetz is accused of violating multiple state laws, including Florida's statutory rape law, and obstructing the committee's investigation. Despite these findings, Gaetz has denied any wrongdoing and filed a lawsuit to block the report's release, arguing that the committee lacks jurisdiction over him as a former member of Congress.