The House Ethics Committee announced on Monday that it has opened an investigation into federal Rep. Jimmy Gomez, a Democrat who represents parts of Los Angeles, California. The probe follows allegations that Gomez engaged in inappropriate sexual contact with a staffer, which would violate House ethics rules.

Accusations and response

According to a statement released by the woman’s attorneys, Lisa J. Banks and Sarah E. Nesbitt, their client told the committee that Gomez’s actions were not consensual. The attorneys said, “Contrary to Representative Gomez’s assertion in his statement, his actions were not ‘consensual in nature’ with respect to our client.”

Gomez previously acknowledged “personal mistakes outside my marriage,” but maintained that any encounters were consensual and did not break the law or House rules. He has not responded to a request for comment on the new attorneys’ allegations.

Committee’s stance

A spokesperson for the House Ethics Committee declined to comment on the attorneys’ statement, noting that the existence of an investigation and its public disclosure do not, by themselves, indicate that any violation has occurred.

Background

The investigation follows earlier reports that the panel was looking into a separate claim that Gomez was seen kissing an aide who worked for another member of Congress in 2023. Gomez’s office denied that the incident happened. Sources told CNN that the panel’s early inquiries into that claim led to the discovery of additional allegations, prompting the current probe.

Next steps

Gomez has said he will cooperate fully with any Ethics Committee inquiry and provide any information requested. The committee’s investigation will continue as it gathers testimony and evidence.

CNN’s Alison Main and Annie Grayer contributed to this report.

Original reporting: KRDO (Colorado Springs metro) — read the source article.