House Republicans block release of ethics report on Matt Gaetz

Republican lawmakers in the U.S. House of Representatives have blocked the release of an Ethics Committee report on Matt Gaetz, a former congressman and Donald Trump’s initial pick for attorney general. Gaetz had withdrawn his nomination last week amid controversy over the investigation.

The House, where Republicans hold the majority, voted against a Democratic proposal to make the report public. The decision has left calls for transparency unresolved, with Democrats expressing disappointment over the outcome.

“This is a failure of accountability,” a Democratic member remarked following the vote, while Republican lawmakers defended their stance, accusing their opponents of turning the process into a “political witch hunt.”

The Ethics Committee investigation into Gaetz stemmed from allegations that he had engaged in misconduct, including “paying two women for sexual relations,” “having sexual relations with a minor,” and “drug use.” These claims led to an inquiry that culminated in the now-shelved report.

Trump, who had nominated Gaetz for the Department of Justice post, opposed releasing the document, a position mirrored by House Republicans. The resistance has fueled criticism from various quarters, with public pressure mounting for greater transparency.

The debate over the report has also intensified scrutiny of the GOP’s handling of allegations against Gaetz, especially in light of his withdrawal from consideration for the attorney general role. Gaetz announced his decision to step aside last week, citing the growing controversy as a factor.

Despite the latest vote, the issue remains a flashpoint in ongoing discussions over ethics and accountability in Congress.