Republicans block release of Gaetz ethics report ahead of confirmation battle

House Ethics Committee Republicans on Wednesday voted against releasing a report on sexual misconduct allegations involving former Rep. Matt Gaetz, President-elect Donald Trump’s nominee for attorney general. The decision delays the release but does not resolve the commission’s investigation, which will be reviewed on December 5.

Gaetz is facing scrutiny as he campaigns for Senate confirmation, and allegations of sex-trafficking and misconduct are resurfacing. Although he denies all the allegations, Democrats on the Senate Judiciary Committee have requested the full FBI investigative file on Gaetz, citing concerns about his ability to lead the Justice Department.

Trump has rallied behind Gaetz, touting him as essential to reshaping the DOJ. With GOP senators divided over the nomination, hearings are expected to begin shortly after the new Congress convenes in January, setting the stage for a contentious confirmation process.

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