The House Ethics Committee formally announced on Monday that it is investigating allegations of sexual misconduct against Representative Jimmy Gomez, a California Democrat. The panel's statement indicates it is reviewing claims that Gomez may have violated the Code of Official Conduct or other standards, specifically referencing "inappropriate sexual contact with a House staffer."
The committee was quick to note that the initiation of an inquiry does not imply any violation has occurred. "The Committee notes that the mere fact that it is investigating these allegations, and publicly disclosing its review, does not itself indicate that any violation has occurred," the statement read.
This development follows earlier reporting from CNN in June, which first revealed the committee's interest in Gomez. That report cited a New York Post story alleging that Gomez was seen kissing a younger staffer who worked for a different House Democrat in 2023.
In a statement to The Hill, Gomez acknowledged the incident but insisted it was consensual. "My actions were consensual in nature and haven't violated the law or House Ethics rules," he said, while also expressing regret: "That doesn't diminish the impact that these mistakes have made on those I care about the most."
Gomez welcomed the committee's caveat about the inquiry's preliminary nature and expressed confidence in the process. "I appreciate the Committee's statement that the existence of an inquiry does not itself indicate that any violation occurred," he said. "I respect the Committee's process and am confident that a full and impartial review of the facts will bear that out. I stand ready to cooperate with the Ethics Committee inquiry and provide it with whatever information it might need. Out of respect for my family and the ongoing process, I will have no further comment."
The announcement adds to a busy period for the Ethics Committee, which last month disclosed a separate investigation into Representative Lance Gooden, a Texas Republican, though the nature of that probe was not specified. The committee said it had received a referral from the Office of Congressional Conduct regarding Gooden.
Gomez, who has served in the House since 2017, is a member of the Congressional Progressive Caucus and has been active on issues ranging from labor rights to immigration. The investigation could complicate his political standing, though he has not indicated any intention to step down.
Ethics experts note that such inquiries are not uncommon, and many are resolved without formal findings of wrongdoing. The committee's decision to publicly disclose the investigation, however, underscores the seriousness with which it is treating the allegations.
As the probe moves forward, Gomez's colleagues and constituents will be watching closely. The case also highlights the ongoing scrutiny of workplace conduct on Capitol Hill, particularly in the wake of the #MeToo movement.
For now, Gomez has pledged to cooperate fully, and the committee has not set a timeline for completing its review. Further details are expected to emerge as the investigation progresses.
