Thu Nov 21 03:56:54 UTC 2024: **House Ethics Committee Deadlocked on Releasing Report on Gaetz, Trump’s Attorney General Nominee**

WASHINGTON – The House ethics committee failed to reach a decision on Wednesday regarding the release of a report investigating allegations of sexual misconduct and other misconduct against Matt Gaetz, President Trump’s controversial nominee for Attorney General. The evenly divided committee, composed of an equal number of Democrats and Republicans, ended a two-hour closed-door meeting without a consensus.

Republican committee chair Michael Guest cited concerns about releasing an unfinished report, while top Democrat Susan Wild confirmed a vote took place but revealed a party-line split prevented a decision. The committee will reconvene on December 5th to revisit the matter.

The report examines allegations including sexual misconduct, drug use, misuse of state records, campaign finance violations, and bribery. While the Department of Justice closed its own investigation into Gaetz last year without filing charges, two women have testified to congressional investigators about his alleged actions.

The deadlock highlights the deep partisan divide surrounding Gaetz’s nomination. House Speaker Mike Johnson warned against releasing the report, suggesting it could open a “Pandora’s box,” while Senator Lindsey Graham, a Trump ally, condemned what he called a “lynch mob” targeting Gaetz. Other Republicans, including Senator Markwayne Mullin, suggested the report should at least be made available to senators involved in the confirmation process.

Democrats, however, have largely supported the report’s release, with nearly 100 House Democrats signing a letter demanding its publication. Representative Sean Casten indicated he plans to introduce a resolution forcing a full House vote on the matter. Meanwhile, Senate Judiciary Committee Democrats requested the FBI’s file on Gaetz, citing concerns about his fitness for office.

The outcome of the ethics committee’s deliberations will significantly impact Gaetz’s confirmation prospects. While a released report could hinder his chances, Trump has suggested bypassing the Senate confirmation process through recess appointments if necessary. The situation remains highly volatile as Gaetz seeks to garner support for his nomination.

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