Former Florida Congressman Matt Gaetz has warned that he will“expose” alleged “me too“ settlements involving former colleagues following the House Ethics Committee‘s investigation into accusations of sexual misconduct against him. The committee’s findings are expected to be made public soon, and it examines accusations including sexual misconduct, drug use, and bribery.
Gaetz, who has all along denied any wrongdoing, has resigned from Congress on 13 November after being proposed by President-elect Donald Trump for the post of Attorney General of the United States. However, just seven days later, Matt Gaetz withdrew his nomination, due to what he called “needlessly protracted Washington scuffle,” which could delay action. His resignation delayed release of the Ethics Committee report, which critics say it was a strategic move.
Gaetz Denounces Investigation as ‘Smear Campaign’
Previous in the past, the Department of Justice had already done an investigation about the claim that Matt Gaetz had a sexual relationship with a minor but chose not to indict. The Ethics Committee took it on its own nevertheless. The report claims allegations involving sexual misconduct, payment for sex, and engaging in activities illicit in nature. One such witness who testified, according to her lawyer, reported that she saw Gaetz having sex with a minor at a party back in 2017.
Matt Gaetz described the investigation as a “smear campaign“ and responded on social media with the following: “I was charged with nothing: FULLY EXONERATED. Not even a campaign finance violation. And the people investigating me hated me.” He criticised the Ethics Committee‘s decision to release the report, stating he had no opportunity to contest its findings as a former congressman.
Admitting to his past behavior, Gaetz said, “It‘s embarrassing, though not criminal, that I probably partied, womanized, drank, and smoked more than I should have earlier in life. I live a different life now.”
The Ethics Committee has made no comment on the report, while Gaetz’s threats to reveal alleged settlements have added another layer of intrigue to the unfolding controversy.
