The House Ethics Committee announced on August 17, 2026, that it is investigating Congressman Jimmy Gomez (D-Calif.) regarding allegations of sexual misconduct. Gomez acknowledged in a statement that he has made "personal mistakes outside my marriage," asserting that his actions were "consensual" and did not violate any laws or House Ethics rules. He expressed his commitment to cooperating with the committee's investigation.
The committee is reviewing allegations that Gomez engaged in sexual misconduct, potentially violating the Code of Official Conduct or other applicable standards, including inappropriate sexual contact with a House staffer. Specific details about the allegations have not been disclosed. Reports indicate that the investigation includes an alleged romantic relationship Gomez had in 2023 with an aide from another congressional office.
Currently, House rules do not prohibit members of Congress from having relationships with staffers outside their own offices. However, a bipartisan sexual misconduct task force is considering recommending a ban on such relationships. House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La.) has endorsed this potential ban, stating that it would be inappropriate in any workplace.
This investigation comes amid a series of sexual misconduct scandals in Congress this year, including the resignations of Reps. Tony Gonzales (R-Texas) and Eric Swalwell (D-Calif.) due to allegations of sexual misconduct. Swalwell has denied the allegations, while Gonzales admitted to an affair with a staffer who later died by suicide. Additionally, Rep. Chuck Edwards (R-N.C.) was found to have violated House rules regarding sexual harassment, leading to a recommendation for his censure, which he denies. Rep. Cory Mills (R-Fla.) is also under investigation for allegations of domestic abuse, stolen valor, and financial misconduct, all of which he denies. The Ethics panel's investigations can take months or even years to conclude.