Committee Demands Testimony Over Allegations of Misconduct
The House Ethics Committee has issued a subpoena for the testimony of a former girlfriend of Rep. Matt Gaetz as part of its ongoing investigation into the Florida Republican. The committee is demanding Gaetz’s ex-girlfriend to appear before the panel over a Zoom call on Feb. 29, according to a letter sent to the woman’s lawyer.
Compliance with Subpoena
The woman, whose identity has not been disclosed by ABC News, had previously indicated that she would “plead the fifth” on any questions related to the former congressman. Her lawyer, Tim Jansen, confirmed that they would comply with the subpoena but also stated that the client would invoke her Fifth Amendment right before the committee.
Investigation Focus
House investigators are reportedly interested in speaking with the ex-girlfriend about allegations that Gaetz paid for sex, drug use, and potential lobbying violations. The committee is also exploring a 2018 trip to the Bahamas that included the ex-girlfriend, Gaetz, and others, including a one-time minor at the center of a closed sex trafficking investigation.
Response from Gaetz
In response to the latest development, Gaetz criticized the Ethics Committee, accusing them of “trying to weaponize their process” and suggested the investigation was politically motivated. Gaetz reiterated his stance on the matter, stating, “Exposing witch hunts is kind of my thing around here.”
The House Ethics Committee has not provided a comment on the matter, and the investigation continues to unfold.