### House Ethics Committee Withholds Report on Former Rep. Matt Gaetz Amid DOJ Nomination

In a contentious decision, the House Ethics Committee has chosen not to release its investigative report on former Rep. Matt Gaetz (R-Fla.), following a vote by Republican panel members. Gaetz, who has recently been nominated by President-elect Trump to serve as attorney general, stepped down from his congressional role shortly after the nomination was announced.

Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La.) has publicly opposed the report's release, citing concerns about breaking precedent since Gaetz is no longer a member of Congress. Johnson argued that making the findings public could set a "terrible precedent," suggesting that it demonstrates the lengths to which he is prepared to go in order to protect Trump's nominees.

The report's suppression has stirred significant controversy, particularly among Democrats who are seeking any possible means to compel the report's release. Many expect the findings to contain damaging information regarding allegations of sex trafficking, corruption, and drug use against Gaetz. Gaetz has consistently denied any wrongdoing, dismissing the investigation as a politically motivated effort in retaliation for his role in the ousting of former Speaker Kevin McCarthy (R-Calif.).

Despite the Ethics Committee's decision, speculation abounds among GOP lawmakers that the findings may ultimately be leaked to the public. The committee is expected to convene soon for a possible vote on the matter, as the decision remains a focal point in the ongoing political maneuvering surrounding Gaetz’s nomination.

Gaetz’s resignation came abruptly on Wednesday, just after Trump's announcement of his nomination, which abruptly halted the committee's investigation. The incident has thrown the committee into the spotlight, intensifying scrutiny as they deliberate on whether to release their report.

Both Gaetz and his supporters have maintained that the investigation lacks merit and is driven by partisan objectives, a claim that continues to fuel discord within the political landscape leading up to his potential confirmation as attorney general.