House Ethics Committee probes Rep. Gomez over sexual misconduct allegations

The House Ethics Committee has formally opened an investigation into Democratic Representative Jimmy Gomez of California over allegations of sexual misconduct, including engaging in inappropriate sexual contact with a congressional staffer. The committee announced the probe on Monday, August 17, 2026, stating it would examine whether Gomez violated the House Code of Official Conduct.

The investigation follows media reports earlier this year detailing an alleged 2023 incident. According to those reports, Gomez was seen kissing a congressional aide from another office at a party. A spokesperson for Gomez previously denied that account. In a statement released on August 17, Gomez acknowledged making "personal mistakes outside my marriage" years ago but maintained his actions were "consensual in nature" and did not violate law or House ethics rules. He expressed remorse to his family and said he was seeking professional assistance while pledging to cooperate with the committee.

The case escalated on Wednesday, August 19, when attorneys Lisa Banks and Sarah Nesbitt issued a statement on behalf of an unnamed woman who has spoken to the Ethics Committee. The attorneys stated their...