In a contentious move that could set a significant precedent, House Republicans have thwarted efforts by Democrats to make public an Ethics Committee report on former Rep. Matt Gaetz, redirecting the issue back to the committee for further assessment.
House Republicans cited procedural traditions in preventing the disclosure of the report, which involves serious allegations, against Gaetz including sexual misconduct, as ABC News reports.
The House of Representatives voted narrowly, with counts of 206-198 and 204-198, to refer resolutions by Democrat Reps. Sean Casten and Steve Cohen back to the Ethics Committee. These resolutions were designed to make the Ethics Committee's findings on Gaetz public and ensure the preservation of all related investigation documents.
Casten's updated resolution, presented earlier this week, emphasized historical precedents where the committee has released information about former members of Congress. Cohen echoed this by calling for the safeguarding of crucial investigatory records.
The impetus for public disclosure of the report arises from ongoing allegations against Gaetz. These include accusations of engaging in sexual misconduct, drug usage, incorrectly utilizing state identification records, mishandling campaign funds, and receiving inappropriate gifts. Additionally, reports surfaced alleging he shared unsuitable images or media on the House floor. Despite these grave charges, Republicans have argued firmly against disclosing the Ethics Committee's findings.
Rep. Tom McClintock notably stood apart from his party, siding with Democrats on Casten’s resolution to release the report. His was the sole Republican vote in favor, as the majority held fast to the stance against public disclosure. The Ethics Committee did convene earlier this week for a two-hour session concerning the Gaetz matter. Despite discussions, they did not divulge the content of their deliberations or reach a decision to release the report.
Incidentally, this mirrors the committee's stance last month when Republican members blocked the unveiling of the report, keeping its content undisclosed. The Ethics Committee released a statement indicating that discussions were ongoing.
Gaetz's recent resignation throws an additional spotlight on the proceedings. After receiving a nomination from President-elect Donald Trump for the position of attorney general, Gaetz stepped down last month. However, he ultimately withdrew from the nomination due to waning support. Despite securing reelection for a seat in the 119th Congress, Gaetz has announced he will not assume the role, instead declaring his allegiance to President-elect Trump. Since his departure, Gaetz has engaged with audiences through Cameo, offering personalized video messages f0r a fee.
Democrats have criticized the inaction of Republicans, claiming that the Ethics Committee's report remains pertinent to both Gaetz's nomination and potential Senate confirmation process. This argument is maintained even though Gaetz has withdrawn his candidacy.
Democrats argue that creating such a precedent, where resigning leaves serious allegations unaddressed, is damaging. Rep. Sean Casten remarked on the implications of the House's decision, indicating it allows members facing scrutiny an escape route by resigning. Speaker Johnson and other Republicans have defended their position by citing traditional practices. They argue that reports on members who have left Congress are typically not released, to maintain procedural integrity.
Only a small minority of Republican votes would have been necessary to compel the release of the document. Despite this, Republicans remained largely unified in their decision to keep the details under wraps.
The broader implications of this decision remain to be seen. Whether this sets a lasting precedent where Congress members might evade accountability remains a pivotal concern for many. While discussions continue, the debate underscores a critical intersection of congressional tradition and the need for accountability, testing the House's ability to navigate such complexities.
The Ethics Committee, now tasked with further deliberation, faces scrutiny on whether it will opt to reveal its findings on Gaetz in the future, amid ongoing demands for transparency.
