The House Ethics Committee has discreetly voted to release its report on the investigation into former Representative Matt Gaetz, focusing on allegations of sexual misconduct and obstruction, according to two sources familiar with the matter. This decision marks a reversal after Republicans initially blocked the report’s release.
The report is expected to be made public in the coming days, following the conclusion of the 118th Congress’ final votes, the sources said. Lawmakers face a Friday deadline to approve government funding and avert a shutdown before heading home for the holidays. CNN reported on Thursday that the committee had voted in a closed-door session earlier this month to approve the report’s release.
The House Ethics Committee declined to comment on the matter.
Recently, House Republicans blocked two Democratic resolutions aimed at compelling the committee to release the potentially damaging report, opting instead to refer the issue back to the committee.
Gaetz resigned from Congress shortly after then-President-elect Donald Trump announced plans to nominate him as attorney general in November. However, Gaetz withdrew from consideration amid concerns over a contentious confirmation process. He has stated he will not take the oath of office for the 119th Congress and plans to launch a show on the pro-Trump One America News Network in January.
While it is uncommon for the House Ethics Committee to release a report on a former member, it is not unprecedented. Some congressional leaders, including Democrats, have raised concerns about the precedent this could set.
In June, the committee announced it was investigating allegations against Gaetz, including sexual misconduct, illicit drug use, and bribery. Multiple sources previously told CBS News that four women had informed the committee they were paid to attend parties involving sex and drugs, which Gaetz allegedly attended. The committee reportedly has access to Venmo transactions suggesting Gaetz made payments to these women.
Gaetz has consistently denied any wrongdoing, labeling the investigation a “frivolous” smear campaign.
Some of the allegations of sexual misconduct under review by the committee were also examined in a prior Department of Justice investigation. Federal authorities investigated whether Gaetz violated laws related to sex trafficking and obstruction of justice but ultimately declined to file charges.