Statement Regarding the Matter of Representative Matt Gaetz

Pursuant to Committee Rule 7, the Committee on Ethics (the Committee) issues the following statement:

On April 9, 2021, the Committee announced an inquiry into allegations against Representative Matt Gaetz, which included claims of sexual misconduct, illicit drug use, sharing inappropriate images or videos on the House floor, misuse of state identification records, conversion of campaign funds for personal use, and acceptance of a bribe, improper gratuity, or impermissible gift, all of which could violate House Rules, federal law, or other standards of conduct. The investigation was deferred at the Department of Justice's (DOJ) request, but after the DOJ withdrew this request in May 2023, the Committee resumed its investigation.

This Congress has seen an unusual amount of public reporting regarding the Committee’s activities, much of which has been inaccurate. While the Committee conducts its investigations confidentially, witnesses are not prohibited from disclosing information about the Committee’s inquiries or discussions with investigators. The Committee remains confident in the integrity of its investigative process.

Representative Gaetz has denied all allegations under review. Despite challenges in obtaining information from Representative Gaetz and others, the Committee has interviewed over a dozen witnesses, issued 25 subpoenas, and reviewed thousands of pages of documents. Based on the evidence reviewed, the Committee has determined that specific allegations warrant further investigation. Additional allegations have also come to light during the inquiry that merit further review.

As a result, the Committee is now examining allegations under Committee Rules 14(a)(3) and 18(a) that Representative Gaetz may have:

• Engaged in sexual misconduct and illicit drug use.
• Accepted improper gifts.
• Provided special privileges or favors to individuals with whom he had a personal relationship.
• Attempted to obstruct government investigations into his conduct.

The Committee will not pursue further action on the allegations that Representative Gaetz may have shared inappropriate content on the House floor, misused state identification records, converted campaign funds to personal use, or accepted a bribe or improper gratuity.

It is important to emphasize that the existence of an investigation does not imply any conclusion regarding wrongdoing. No further public comments will be made on this matter except as permitted under Committee rules.