Washington — The House Ethics Committee said Monday that it is formally examining sexual misconduct allegations involving Democratic Rep. Jimmy Gomez of California.
In a news release, the bipartisan panel said it is reviewing claims that Gomez may have engaged in sexual misconduct, including an allegation of inappropriate sexual contact with a House staff member.
The committee emphasized that the public confirmation of an investigation should not be interpreted as proof that Gomez violated any law, rule or standard of conduct. It also said it would not offer additional public comment unless required under House Ethics Committee procedures.
CNN reported in June that the committee had already launched a probe after a New York Post story alleged Gomez was seen in 2023 kissing a significantly younger aide employed by another member of Congress. According to CNN, investigators uncovered additional sexual misconduct allegations after looking into that initial report.
Responding Monday, Gomez acknowledged that he had made personal mistakes, while maintaining that he did not break the law or violate House ethics rules.
Gomez said that, as he stated when the inquiry was first reported by the media two months earlier, he had made mistakes outside his marriage years ago. He described the conduct as consensual and said it did not amount to a legal or ethics violation, but added that this did not lessen the harm caused to the people closest to him. He said he accepts full responsibility, has been working through the matter privately with his wife and family, and has sought professional help to rebuild trust and move forward with honesty, transparency and respect.
He also apologized to his family, friends and constituents, saying he was especially sorry to his wife for the pain and embarrassment his actions brought into their lives. Gomez said her support and sacrifices have been essential to his public service, adding that he is grateful for her strength and grace.
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Gomez said he intends to cooperate with the House Ethics Committee investigation and provide any information the panel requests.
“I respect the Committee’s process and am confident that a full and impartial review of the facts will bear that out,” he said.
The Ethics Committee has the power to investigate violations of federal law and House rules, and can recommend punishments for members who are found to have committed them. Earlier this month, the panel recommended the full House censure GOP Rep. Chuck Edwards following a probe into allegations of sexual harassment. Edwards dropped his reelection bid days later.
