Records indicate that former Representative Matt Gaetz made over $10,000 in payments via Venmo to two women who later provided testimony during investigations into allegations of sexual misconduct involving him. According to documents, which have been reviewed, Gaetz allegedly transferred a total of $10,224.02 in 27 separate payments between July 2017 and January 2019. The payments, ranging from $100 to more than $700 each, were made when the recipients were adults.
The House Ethics Committee obtained these records, including a check reportedly issued by Gaetz and Venmo documentation, which were shown to witnesses during closed sessions. Sources indicated that during their testimonies, some women identified the payments as being in exchange for sexual activities, while Gaetz has consistently denied any wrongdoing.
In response to these revelations, a spokesperson for President Donald Trump’s administration claimed that an extensive investigation by the Justice Department concluded that no criminal charges would be pursued against Gaetz. This spokesperson characterized the ongoing leaks as attempts to undermine the incoming administration’s agenda for reform within the Justice Department.
Entries from the Venmo payments included descriptions such as generous gifts, reimbursements for travel, and other expenses, with some entries featuring emojis. Notably, one payment allegedly corresponded with a trip to the Bahamas, related to the Justice Department’s inquiry into Gaetz’s dealings.
Additionally, a check dated October 2018 for $750, labeled as “tuition reimbursement,” further adds to the scrutiny Gaetz faces as part of the ongoing investigation. He has previously attributed the payments to his general generosity towards former acquaintances and denied that they were for sex.
The House Ethics Committee is anticipated to convene soon to discuss the potential release of its findings, even following Gaetz’s resignation from Congress amidst the investigations.
As additional information unfolds, the hope remains that a clearer understanding of the situation will emerge, fostering accountability and transparency in political conduct. This case serves as a reminder of the importance of legal and ethical standards in public service, while also highlighting the complexities involved in addressing allegations of misconduct.