Additional Coverage:
- Ethics panel investigating whether Matt Gaetz got high at Florida party after he’d become a member of Congress (newsbreak.com)
Title: House Ethics Committee Probes Rep. Matt Gaetz Over Alleged Drug Use
Date: [Date]
In a significant twist in Capitol Hill, the House Ethics Committee is delving into allegations against Florida Representative Matt Gaetz regarding possible illegal drug consumption. The committee’s inquiry comes amid swirling questions about Gaetz’s behavior at gatherings dating back to 2017, with witnesses being queried about whether Gaetz was intoxicated during these events.
A critical piece of evidence in the investigation is a sworn written testimony from a female attendee of one such party. The statement reveals the presence of drugs and a minor, aged 17, at the gathering. However, it’s crucial to note that while the statement sheds light on questionable activities, it does not directly implicate Gaetz in engaging in sexual activities with the minor or focus primarily on him.
Despite the gravity of the allegations, Rep. Gaetz has fervently denied any wrongdoing.
As of 2023, he has not faced any criminal charges related to these accusations. However, the outcome of the House Ethics Committee’s investigation could lead to severe ramifications for Gaetz’s political career.
Depending on their findings, the committee has the authority to recommend disciplinary actions, ranging from censure to outright expulsion from the House.
Adding another layer to this unfolding drama, there are reports suggesting that Gaetz’s recent moves to oust House Speaker Kevin McCarthy may have ties to this investigation. Allegations have surfaced that Gaetz’s efforts against McCarthy were possibly motivated by a desire to halt the Ethics Committee’s probing into his conduct. A claim McCarthy seems to echo, asserting Gaetz sought to leverage his campaign against the Speaker as a means to disrupt the ongoing investigation.
As this intricate story continues to unfold, the political and personal future of Rep. Matt Gaetz hangs in the balance, with the House Ethics Committee’s investigation potentially setting the stage for a significant showdown in U.S. politics.
For more updates on this story, stay tuned.