Media analysis and expert commentary on the decision process

House GOP Blocks Release of Gaetz Ethics Report in 206-198 Vote

Dec 5, 2024, 09:45 PM

House Democrats are pushing to force the release of the House Ethics Committee's report on former Representative Matt Gaetz, who resigned from Congress and withdrew his name from consideration as Attorney General. Gaetz is under investigation for allegations of sexual misconduct, illicit drug use, and other transgressions. Representatives Sean Casten of Illinois and Steve Cohen have introduced privileged resolutions to require the Ethics Committee to release its findings. The Ethics Committee met to discuss the matter but issued a statement saying it is "continuing to discuss the matter," without committing to releasing the report. On Thursday, House Republicans blocked the release twice, voting 206-198 and 204-198 to refer the matter back to the Ethics Committee. Only Republican Representative Tom McClintock joined Democrats in voting against tabling the resolutions. Former House Speaker Kevin McCarthy has stated that the report should be released.