Former Rep. Matt Gaetz filed a lawsuit on Monday against the House Ethics Committee, seeking to prevent the release of its report investigating allegations of sexual misconduct and illicit drug use. The lawsuit argues the committee’s actions are unconstitutional and exceed its authority, claiming the threatened release of potentially defamatory information would cause irreparable harm to Gaetz’s reputation and professional standing. He contends the damage would be “immediate and severe” and cannot be adequately compensated with monetary damages.
Gaetz’s filing emphasizes his status as a private citizen following his resignation from Congress. He alleges he did not receive proper notice of the report’s impending release, claiming the committee improperly continued its investigation after his departure and voted to release the report without adequate notification or disclosure. He maintains his innocence, reiterating previous denials of wrongdoing. Last week, he addressed the allegations on X, admitting to past behavior he now regrets but insisting he never had sexual contact with a minor. He noted he has never been charged or sued in relation to these matters.
The Justice Department concluded a multi-year investigation into similar allegations last year without filing charges. President-elect Donald Trump initially nominated Gaetz for Attorney General last month, prompting Gaetz’s resignation from Congress. However, Gaetz subsequently withdrew his name from consideration, citing an unfair and distracting confirmation process. The Ethics Committee’s investigation was nearing completion at the time of the nomination, leading to debate on Capitol Hill regarding the release of its report, particularly concerning the Senate’s role in vetting presidential nominees. Initially voting against release, the committee reportedly reversed course.