The House Ethics Committee opened an investigation into Rep. Jimmy Gomez (D-CA) over sexual misconduct allegations. Earlier this year, Gomez was accused of engaging in sexual misconduct with a younger aide.
“The Committee, pursuant to Committee Rule 18(a), is reviewing allegations that Representative Jimmy Gomez may have engaged in sexual misconduct in violation of the Code of Official Conduct or any other applicable standard of conduct, including engaging in inappropriate sexual contact with a House staffer in violation of clause 18(b) of the Code,” the committee declared.
Gomez responded to the allegations in a statement reported by CNN. “Years ago, I made personal mistakes outside my marriage that have caused real pain to my wife and family. Although my actions were consensual in nature and haven’t violated the law or House ethics rules, that doesn’t diminish the impact that these mistakes have made on those I care about the most,” he said.
“I take full responsibility and have committed myself to working through the pain privately with my wife and family,” he continued. “I sought professional assistance to help re-center and heal the relationships that mean everything to me, and move forward with the honesty, transparency, and respect that everyone deserves from the people they love. I continue to do this work.”
Gomez’s statement added that he apologizes to his family and constituents.
Other lawmakers, including Reps. Eric Swalwell (D-CA) and Tony Gonzales (R-TX), resigned after allegations of sexual misconduct. Former Rep. Chuck Edwards (R-NC) ended his reelection campaign after the committee found he engaged in inappropriate behavior.
