House ethics committee report alleges Matt Gaetz engaged in Sex-for-Money deals and drug use

The House Ethics Committee has released a long-awaited report on former Congressman Matt Gaetz, documenting a series of serious allegations, including sex with an underage girl. The bipartisan report outlines evidence of a lifestyle involving drug-fueled parties and paid sexual relationships, which damaged Gaetz’s political ambitions.

The findings are based on text messages, travel receipts, online payments, and witness testimony. The report alleges that Gaetz paid tens of thousands of dollars to women between 2017 and 2020 for what it describes as “transactional” relationships involving sexual activity and drug use.

Allegations of Sex-for-Money and Drug Use

The committee uncovered evidence that Gaetz frequently connected with younger women for events, parties, or trips where sex was expected. Payments were made through platforms such as PayPal, Venmo, and CashApp. One woman testified that 99% of her encounters with Gaetz involved sex.

Additionally, the report claims Gaetz often requested drugs for these meetings. Text exchanges suggest he coordinated travel and lodging for women to attend events, with some trips spanning multiple locations.

Underage Allegation

The most serious allegation involves a July 2017 party where Gaetz reportedly had sex with a 17-year-old girl who was paid $400. The woman, who had recently completed high school, told the committee she also took ecstasy at the event. Although she did not disclose her age to Gaetz at the time, the committee found he continued to meet her for paid encounters after learning she was underage.

Gaetz’s Denial and Legal Battles

Gaetz has denied all wrongdoing, insisting he never knowingly had sex with a minor and dismissing the report as politically motivated. “Every investigation into me ends the same way: my exoneration,” he stated. He filed a last-minute lawsuit to block the report’s release, claiming it lacked substantial evidence and was an attempt to discredit him.

The Justice Department previously investigated Gaetz but closed its case without filing charges. Gaetz’s legal team argued that the absence of charges proves his innocence, but the Ethics Committee noted his lack of cooperation in their probe.

A Complicated Investigation

The Ethics Committee’s investigation was delayed by the Justice Department’s refusal to share key evidence and statements from witnesses. Many women declined to provide further testimony, citing trauma and the Justice Department’s lack of action.

Despite Gaetz’s claims of obstruction, the report highlights his alleged violations of congressional conduct rules, including accepting inappropriate gifts. The committee criticized Gaetz’s refusal to provide evidence and accused him of misleading investigators.

While the Justice Department closed its case, the Ethics Committee’s findings have cast a shadow over Gaetz’s conduct, emphasizing the need for accountability in public office.