A damning report from the U.S. House Ethics Committee has revealed that former Florida Congressman Matt Gaetz spent tens of thousands of dollars on activities that violated House rules, including payments for drugs, sex, and obstruction of Congress. The investigation, which scrutinized Gaetz’s actions during his time in office, detailed a web of misconduct that culminated in his resignation.
The report uncovered $90,000 in payments to 12 women, with significant portions allegedly linked to sexual activities and drug use. Further, it found “substantial evidence” of Gaetz engaging in a sexual relationship with a 17-year-old in 2017, during his tenure as a House member.
Despite his denial of any wrongdoing, Gaetz’s legal maneuvers to suppress the findings proved futile. The Ethics Committee pressed forward with the report, citing clear breaches of House standards that include prohibitions against prostitution, illicit drug use, and statutory rape.
Although the panel did not uncover evidence of federal sex trafficking violations, testimony from a woman identified as “Victim A” claimed she had twice engaged in sexual activities with Gaetz at a party when she was underage. She alleged receiving $400 in cash after each encounter, understanding it to be compensation for sex. Gaetz, who was 35 at the time, reportedly did not verify her age.
The fallout from the report follows a tumultuous political career marked by controversies and audacious moves. In 2023, Gaetz spearheaded the unprecedented removal of House Speaker Kevin McCarthy, further solidifying his polarizing legacy.
Though Gaetz initially announced plans to join the Trump administration as attorney general, he withdrew amid mounting scrutiny and an anticipated Senate battle.
In a social media post preceding the report’s release, Gaetz admitted to youthful indiscretions but maintained his innocence regarding criminal behavior. “I probably partied, womanized, drank, and smoked more than I should have earlier in life,” he wrote, adding that he now leads a different lifestyle.
The report’s release has drawn criticism from some members of the Ethics Committee, who argue it sets a concerning precedent for addressing former legislators. Nonetheless, the revelations offer a sobering account of the intersection of power, privilege, and accountability in American politics.
