House Ethics investigating Rep. Gomez for alleged sexual misconduct

Washington — The House Ethics Committee confirmed Monday that it’s investigating allegations of sexual misconduct against Democratic Rep. Jimmy Gomez of California. 

In a news release, the bipartisan committee said it’s “reviewing allegations that Representative Jimmy Gomez may have engaged in sexual misconduct … including engaging in inappropriate sexual contact with a House staffer.” 

“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,” it added. “No other public comment will be made on this matter except in accordance with Committee rules.” 

CNN reported in June that the panel had opened an investigation, following a New York Post story that alleged that Gomez had been seen in 2023 kissing a much younger aide who worked for a different member of Congress. The Ethics Committee learned of other allegations of sexual misconduct when it began investigating the story, according to CNN.

Gomez admitted to making mistakes, but denied violating any laws or House ethics rules. 

“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 in a statement to CNN in June.

Gomez told CNN that he would “cooperate with any Ethics Committee inquiry and provide it with whatever information it might need.” CBS News has reached out to Gomez for comment about the committee’s statement confirming an investigation.

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.