The House Ethics Committee issued a public statement on Monday urging victims of congressional sexual misconduct to come forward. The bipartisan panel, chaired by Rep. Michael Guest (R-Miss.), also published a record of publicly disclosed investigations involving House members dating back to 1976. The committee revealed it had conducted 20 sexual misconduct investigations since 2017, though five cases were not included in the list.
The statement follows the resignations of two lawmakers last week: Rep. Eric Swalwell (D-Calif.) and Rep. Tony Gonzales (R-Texas). Swalwell, a former frontrunner in the California gubernatorial race, faced allegations including assault from a former staffer, which he has repeatedly denied. Gonzales was accused of having an affair with a staffer who died by suicide last fall. Both men resigned on April 13 and officially exited the House the next day, ending ongoing Ethics Committee investigations into their conduct.
The House Ethics Committee, known for operating behind closed doors, rarely issues public statements. Its latest move comes amid increased scrutiny over its pace and transparency. The committee emphasized its commitment to a workplace free from sexual misconduct, harassment, or discrimination, stating there should be 'zero tolerance' for such behavior in Congress or any employment setting.
The panel has faced criticism for its slow pace in handling investigations. Some lawmakers are calling for broader reforms to address misconduct among elected officials.