US Speaker opposes calls to release ethics report on TRUMP’s AG pick

Monday, November 18, 2024 - U.S. House Speaker Mike Johnson has opposed releasing an ethics committee report on allegations against former Congressman Matt Gaetz, who was recently nominated by President-elect Donald Trump to serve as Attorney General. Johnson’s remarks on CNN Sunday come amid growing bipartisan calls for the report's disclosure.

“It should not come out,” Johnson said, referencing Gaetz’s resignation from Congress. “He is no longer a member. There’s a very important protocol and tradition and rule.”

Gaetz, a polarizing Republican from Florida, has faced accusations of paying for sex with a minor, illicit drug use, misusing campaign funds, and sharing explicit content on the House floor — allegations he has consistently denied. His resignation after Trump’s controversial nomination effectively ended the House ethics investigation against him.

Despite Johnson’s stance, lawmakers from both parties, including Republican Senator Markwayne Mullin, have called for the report’s release, citing the Senate's constitutional role in vetting nominees. Mullin told NBC that while public disclosure might not be necessary, “the Senate should have access to that now.”

Democrats have sharply criticized Gaetz as unqualified for the position. Senator-elect Adam Schiff said Gaetz is “disqualified” due to the allegations and lack of experience in the Justice Department.

“Are we really going to have an attorney general with credible allegations of child sex trafficking, illicit drug use, and obstruction of an investigation?” Schiff asked on CNN.

Republicans, too, have raised concerns. Earlier this year, Mullin recalled videos Gaetz allegedly showed on the House floor, claiming they depicted women Gaetz had been involved with.

Gaetz’s nomination has intensified criticism of Trump, with opponents suggesting the move aims to undermine the Justice Department, potentially halting criminal investigations into the former president while targeting his political adversaries.

Johnson defended the Senate’s ability to vet nominees independently, suggesting lawmakers don’t need to rely on an ethics committee report. “They will have a rigorous review and vetting process,” he said, emphasizing the committee’s limited jurisdiction over former members.

The controversy surrounding Gaetz’s nomination has added to the tension between Trump and congressional lawmakers as the incoming administration shapes its cabinet.