Gomez also pledged to cooperate with investigators, saying he would “cooperate with any Ethics Committee inquiry and provide it with whatever information it might need.”
Embattled Democratic Rep. Jimmy Gomez advanced to California's November general election Tuesday despite an ongoing House Ethics Committee investigation stemming from allegations that he engaged in an extramarital relationship with a congressional aide.
Gomez, who represents California's heavily Democratic 34th Congressional District in Los Angeles, secured a spot on the November ballot as questions continue to swirl around allegations of misconduct that emerged earlier this year.
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The House Ethics Committee is reportedly investigating Gomez following allegations that he was seen kissing a congressional aide employed by another member of Congress at a Washington, DC area gathering. The inquiry followed reporting by the New York Post, which cited congressional sources familiar with the matter.
A spokesperson for Gomez initially denied the reported incident. However, the congressman later acknowledged personal misconduct while maintaining that he had not violated any laws or House rules. “Years ago, I made personal mistakes outside my marriage that have caused real pain to my wife and family,” Gomez told CNN. He described the conduct as “consensual.”
“I sincerely apologize to my wife, family, friends, and the people that I have the privilege to serve.”
Gomez also pledged to cooperate with investigators, saying he would “cooperate with any Ethics Committee inquiry and provide it with whatever information it might need.” In a separate statement, Gomez said, “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.”
The controversy comes as California Democrats continue to face scrutiny over allegations of misconduct involving prominent members of the party. Earlier this year, former Rep. Eric Swalwell was accused by multiple women of sexual misconduct ranging from unwanted touching to rape. Swalwell denied wrongdoing but later exited California's gubernatorial race amid the fallout.
Gomez and Swalwell have reportedly maintained a close friendship.
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