Matt Gaetz, a Republican former congressman, is facing new, serious allegations.
Two women recently shared testimony with the House Ethics Committee, claiming that Gaetz paid them directly through Venmo and other means for sex.
According to their accounts, some of these payments were made through the PayPal account of Nestor Galban, whom Gaetz has referred to as his adopted son.
These revelations have sparked further controversy around Gaetz’s conduct during his time in office.
A Complicated Family Dynamic
Gaetz’s relationship with Galban has been a point of public interest since 2020 when Gaetz announced that he had adopted the young man.
However, the situation has been less formal. Gaetz explained that while they never went through legal adoption paperwork, he considered Nestor part of his family, a bond formed through shared love rather than legalities.
Nestor, who arrived from Cuba in 2014 at the age of 12, lived with Gaetz for several years, briefly returning to live with his biological father before moving back in with Gaetz after turning 18.
Now a U.S. citizen, Nestor’s connection to Gaetz has been the subject of public scrutiny, particularly in light of the latest allegations.
Allegations of Sexual Misconduct and Drug Use
The women involved in the investigation claim they were paid for sex at parties Gaetz attended between 2017 and 2019.
These parties were reportedly filled with illegal drugs and group sex situations, with Gaetz attending up to ten such events.
The testimony presented by one of the women to the Ethics Committee included an account from a 2017 house party where she witnessed Gaetz having sex with a 17-year-old.
This has raised questions about Gaetz’s behavior during his time in Congress.
Gaetz has consistently denied the accusations, maintaining that he has never engaged in sexual activity with anyone under the age of 18.
In a letter posted on social media, he firmly rejected any suggestions of wrongdoing, calling the claims a “false smear” and emphasizing that consensual adult activities are none of Congress’s business.
Despite his denials, the investigation by the House Ethics Committee continues.
Political Fallout and Trump’s Support
The controversy surrounding Gaetz’s alleged actions also has political implications.
His nomination by former President Donald Trump for the position of Attorney General has drawn significant attention, especially given the ongoing investigations.
While some Trump allies are pushing for Gaetz to be appointed despite the allegations, the situation remains complicated.
Reports suggest that Trump is determined to have Gaetz confirmed, viewing him as someone who would bring “fearlessness” to the Justice Department.
Senator Kevin Cramer, a Trump supporter, expressed confidence in Gaetz’s ability to take on this role, even as Gaetz faces opposition.
Trump allies are also exploring ways to bypass Senate approval, potentially using the Federal Vacancies Reform Act to appoint Gaetz as Attorney General in an acting capacity.
Ongoing Investigations and Legal Challenges
The House Ethics Committee is still weighing whether to release its findings regarding Gaetz’s alleged misconduct.
The committee’s investigation has been paused following Gaetz’s resignation from Congress, which came in the wake of his nomination by Trump.
In addition to the sexual misconduct and drug use allegations, Gaetz is also facing scrutiny over his role in obstructing government investigations.
While Gaetz’s legal team has vehemently denied the accusations, the investigation continues to unfold.
Gaetz’s connection to his former friend, Joel Greenberg, who was sentenced to prison for sex trafficking, has also cast a shadow over Gaetz’s actions.
Although the Department of Justice previously investigated Gaetz and cleared him of criminal charges, his involvement in Greenberg’s crimes remains part of the broader inquiry.
What’s Next for Gaetz?
As the investigations into Gaetz’s conduct continue, his political future remains uncertain.
While he and Trump are pushing for his confirmation as Attorney General, the road to Senate approval looks increasingly difficult.
Meanwhile, the ongoing probes into his personal and professional life will likely keep the public’s attention on Gaetz for the foreseeable future.
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