The House Ethics Committee is under fire after revelations that Rep. Susan Wild (D-PA) leaked confidential details from an incomplete ethics report on former Rep. Matt Gaetz (R-FL). Wild’s actions have drawn criticism, particularly as the leaked information emerged while Gaetz was being considered for attorney general.
The Ethics Committee had been deadlocked on whether to release findings from the investigation into Gaetz, preventing full disclosure. However, parts of the report still made their way to the press. Sources have now identified Wild as the person responsible for the leaks, which she later admitted.
Wild, who was absent from a recent committee meeting, claimed her absence was due to frustrations over how the case was handled. Her office dismissed suggestions that her actions were inappropriate, calling such claims “inaccurate.” During her absence, Rep. Veronica Escobar (D-TX) temporarily stepped in as acting ranking member.
Critics argue the leaks were politically motivated, coming as Gaetz’s attorney general nomination faced challenges in the Senate. Although the ethics probe ended when Gaetz left Congress, the timing of the leaks raised questions about the intent behind their release.
Rep. Michael Guest (R-MS), who leads the Ethics Committee, stated the panel’s work is ongoing. Wild’s role in future meetings remains unclear as she prepares to leave Congress after losing her seat to Republican Ryan Mackenzie.
The controversy highlights growing concerns over the use of confidential information for political purposes. Republicans have pointed to the incident as evidence of partisanship within the Ethics Committee, undermining its credibility. As debates continue, the committee’s ability to conduct impartial investigations is being called into question.
