TLDR:
• Matt Gaetz accused of misconduct
• House Ethics report reveals key findings
• Evidence includes payments, drugs, and trips
WASHINGTON (The Thursday Times) — Former Congressman Matt Gaetz faces serious allegations from a House Ethics Committee report, accusing him of paying women for sex, drug use, and violating House rules. The report unveils years of misconduct, including statutory rape allegations and illicit transactions during his time in Congress.
House Ethics report details misconduct
The House Ethics Committee released a comprehensive report accusing Matt Gaetz of violating multiple laws and ethical standards. The investigation revealed evidence of payments to women, some of whom were underage at the time, using platforms like PayPal and Venmo. Gaetz is also alleged to have used illegal drugs, including cocaine and ecstasy, during parties and trips while serving in Congress.
A trip to the Bahamas highlighted in the report showcased Gaetz engaging in sexual activity with multiple women, with one describing the trip itself as payment. The findings included testimony from witnesses and financial documents that detailed a pattern of illicit behaviour.
lleAgations of statutory rape
Among the most serious allegations was Gaetz’s involvement with a 17-year-old girl in 2017. The report found that he paid her for sex and engaged in sexual activity at a party where she was under the influence of drugs. Investigators noted Gaetz did not verify her age, but his actions violated Florida’s statutory rape laws.
This accusation forms part of a broader pattern of behaviour, with several women interviewed confirming they were paid for sexual encounters. The report alleges that Gaetz’s former girlfriend facilitated these encounters and participated in some, further implicating him in a network of illicit activities.
Financial transactions and digital evidence
The Ethics Committee examined financial transactions tied to Gaetz, including payments to more than a dozen women. The payments, often made through apps, revealed connections to a “sugar dating” website managed by Gaetz’s associate, Joel Greenberg, who is currently serving an 11-year prison sentence.
The report included text messages and emails that provided further evidence of these arrangements. Witnesses described a clear expectation of sex tied to these payments, implicating Gaetz in a network of transactions violating both legal and ethical standards.
Legal challenges and public denial
Despite the gravity of the accusations, Gaetz continues to deny any wrongdoing. He has filed lawsuits to challenge the committee’s findings, alleging procedural violations and asserting his innocence. However, the release of the report has rendered many of these legal efforts moot.
The Ethics Committee defended its decision to release the findings, citing the extensive public interest and significant evidence uncovered. The allegations against Gaetz remain a striking example of misconduct among elected officials.