Additional Coverage:
Leaked Documents Expose Gaetz Investigation
Confidential depositions related to investigations into former Congressman Matt Gaetz have been leaked, revealing the sworn testimony of a minor allegedly involved in sexual activities with Gaetz.
Ethics Committee Investigation
The House Ethics Committee had been investigating Gaetz for sexual misconduct, drug use, and other allegations. Federal prosecutors declined to charge him in 2023, prompting the committee to resume its inquiry.
Trump’s Attorney General Pick
President-elect Trump has nominated Gaetz as Attorney General. The nomination comes shortly before the Ethics Committee was set to release a damaging report on its investigation. The committee has since postponed the release.
Public Access to Report
Some lawmakers, including Democrats and senators, believe the public should have access to the Ethics Committee’s report. However, releasing it requires a majority vote, which would necessitate support from at least one Republican.
Denials and Allegations
Gaetz has denied any wrongdoing, dismissing the ethics investigation as a smear campaign. A lawyer representing two women who testified before the committee claims they described Gaetz paying them for sex and using code words for drugs.
Testimony of Minor
The leaked depositions include testimony from a 17-year-old girl who allegedly witnessed Gaetz engaging in sexual activity with a minor at a party in 2017.