House Ethics Dismisses Rep. Costa Intern Probe

U.S. Rep. Jim Costa, a Democrat representing California's 21st Congressional District, faced a House ethics investigation in early 2023 over allegations that he made inappropriate advances toward two female congressional interns, according to details from the probe reviewed by news outlets.

The complaint came from a former House Democratic staffer who alleged an uncomfortable encounter with Costa on February 5, 2020, during an event hosted by the California State Society in Washington, D.C. At the time, she was a 22-year-old intern for another lawmaker, while Costa was 70. She told investigators that Costa approached her as she waited for her checked bag to leave the event. He asked if she was alone, urged her to stay because it was a nice night, and invited her to dance. Although she declined, they briefly danced, with her describing his request to "shimmy" as a "very sexual and awkward dance move." She said every time she leaned back, he moved closer, creating a "scary situation" for an intern wary of professional repercussions.

Costa then gave her his personal phone number, offered to help her career, and suggested dinner, which she interpreted as implying an exchange. "When...