Lawmakers Seek FBI Files on Matt Gaetz Amid Confirmation Preparations

WASHINGTON – In a continuing development regarding former Representative Matt Gaetz, lawmakers are seeking access to the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s investigative files as part of their review process. Gaetz, a Republican from Florida, has been involved in controversies but consistently denied any wrongdoing. Currently, he is engaging with senators in preparation for his upcoming confirmation hearing scheduled for early next year.

The change in Senate control from Democrats to Republicans in the new year is prompting demands for the FBI files to be accessible before the end of this year. This period is crucial to ensure lawmakers can review pertinent information ahead of any confirmation hearings of former President Donald Trump’s nominees. According to an unnamed source familiar with Capitol Hill proceedings, «The serious allegations against Mr. Gaetz speak directly to his fitness to serve as the chief law enforcement officer for the federal government.» Unanswered questions persist regarding Gaetz’s alleged conduct, particularly since his associate faced charges that Gaetz was also investigated for.

The FBI has confirmed receipt of a formal request letter but refrained from further commentary. Political analysts note the letter specifically asks for interview notes, known as FD-302 forms, from the investigation files. A lawyer representing a woman involved in the investigation disclosed that she testified about having sexual relations with Gaetz when she was 17, adding another layer of complexity to the investigations and political ramifications.

In an intriguing development on the Senate Judiciary Committee, every Democratic member, except Senator Jon Ossoff from Georgia, has signed the letter requesting the release of the documents. Concurrently, the House Ethics Committee concluded its investigation on November 13 after Gaetz resigned from the House and did not release any findings. House Speaker Mike Johnson, a Republican from Louisiana, has reportedly advised against releasing the committee’s findings to protect confidentiality.

Representatives close to the proceedings, including Michael Guest, the head of the House panel, indicate that discussions about whether to share information with senators or release a public report are ongoing and separate considerations. Meanwhile, Senate Judiciary Committee Chair Senator Dick Durbin, a Democrat from Illinois, has publicly advocated for the release of both the House Ethics Committee report and the FBI documents, stressing the importance of transparency and accountability.