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Matt Gaetz, President Donald Trump’s nominee for former U.S. attorney general, was cleared by the House Ethics Committee in an explosive report released Monday that he had sex with underage girls and that he had sex with underage girls. He was accused of paying for sex and using illegal drugs.
The committee found “substantial evidence” that the former Republican lawmaker violated not only House rules but also state and federal law.
“The committee found substantial evidence that Representative Gaetz violated the House Rules and other standards of conduct prohibiting prostitution, statutory rape, illegal drug use, impermissible gifts, special favors and privileges, and obstruction of Congress.” ”, the committee concluded.
Gates has denied any wrongdoing and posted on X that he was not charged with a crime following an earlier investigation into sexual misconduct by the Justice Department.
The controversial Florida Republican was chosen as attorney general by President-elect Trump in mid-November. Just a few days later, Gates referred to Trump’s pick for vice president, J.D. Vance, and said his selection was “unfairly impeding the important work of Trump and Vance’s transition.” and withdrew his name from consideration.
Mr. Trump subsequently selected former Florida Attorney General Pam Bondi to replace Mr. Gates.
