- United States
- Tenn.
- Letter
The House Ethics Committee should release its full report on the investigation into the alleged sexual encounters between former Rep. Matt Gaetz and a 17-year-old girl. Testimony from multiple sources, including the woman herself, indicates Gaetz had two sexual encounters with her at a party when she was underage. While the Department of Justice declined to bring criminal charges, the ethics probe uncovered deeply concerning actions that warrant full transparency. The public deserves to know the complete facts surrounding a former lawmaker's potential sexual misconduct with a minor. Releasing the report upholds principles of accountability and serves as a deterrent against such unacceptable behavior from elected officials entrusted with power. Attempts to withhold the findings erode trust in Congress's commitment to ethical standards. The American people have a right to this information to make informed decisions about their representatives' fitness for office. Releasing the full report is vital for restoring faith in the integrity of Congress and the rule of law.