Thu Nov 21 11:40:00 UTC 2024: ## Ethics Committee Deadlocked on Gaetz Misconduct Report, Senate Confirmation Looms

**Washington D.C.** – A House ethics committee remains deeply divided over the release of a report investigating allegations of sexual misconduct against Matt Gaetz, President Trump’s controversial nominee for Attorney General. Following a two-hour closed-door meeting Wednesday, the committee failed to reach a consensus, with Democrats and Republicans split along party lines. A vote was taken, but the outcome resulted in a stalemate, according to Democratic Representative Susan Wild. The committee will reconvene on December 5th.

The report details allegations including sexual misconduct, illicit drug use, and obstruction of justice. Two women testified that Gaetz paid them for sex, with one alleging she witnessed him having sex with a minor. Gaetz, a former Florida congressman, vehemently denies all wrongdoing, claiming the accusations are politically motivated.

The committee’s inaction comes as Senators are meeting with Gaetz before his confirmation hearing. While Gaetz claims these meetings are going “great,” the lack of a report fuels concerns among senators on both sides of the aisle. Senate Judiciary Committee Chairman Dick Durbin (D-IL) has demanded the ethics committee share its findings, stating the information is crucial to the confirmation process. Republican Senator Chuck Grassley of Iowa echoed the call for transparency.

The timing of Gaetz’s resignation from the House immediately after his nomination complicates matters. While the committee’s jurisdiction typically ends with a member’s resignation, the possibility remains that the report could be released publicly or sent directly to the Senate Judiciary Committee. Committee Chairman Michael Guest (R-MS) expressed reservations about releasing the report while it’s still under review.

Despite the ongoing controversy, President Trump remains steadfast in his support of Gaetz, calling him the “right man for the job.” The situation remains highly charged, with the ethics committee’s decision holding significant implications for Gaetz’s confirmation and the broader political landscape.

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