California Democrat Hit With Ethics Probe — The Allegations Are Ugly

House investigators have opened a formal probe into Democratic Rep. Jimmy Gomez of California over allegations of inappropriate sexual contact with a House staffer, the House Ethics Committee announced.

Gomez has served in Congress since 2017. He is married, has one child, and founded the Congressional Dads Caucus, which he has long promoted as a vehicle for fathers to “step up” at home and in public life. The new investigation centers on claims of extramarital relationships that Gomez has described as consensual and not in violation of law or House rules.

NEW: The House Ethics Committee announces it is now investigating Rep. Jimmy Gomez (D-CA) over allegations of sexual misconduct, "including engaging in inappropriate sexual contact with a House staffer." pic.twitter.com/wsGwEwRoir

— Bill Melugin (@BillMelugin_) August 17, 2026

Earlier reporting in the summer of 2023 noted Gomez kissing a much younger congressional aide. The Ethics Committee statement confirmed it is examining allegations “including engaging in inappropriate sexual contact with a House staffer.”

In a statement to Fox News Digital, Gomez acknowledged personal failings while insisting the conduct was consensual. “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,” he said. “I take full responsibility and have committed myself to working through the pain privately with my wife and family. I sought professional assistance to help re-center and heal my relationships and move forward with honesty, transparency, and respect.”

He added that he is “deeply sorry” to his wife for the pain and embarrassment and that he will cooperate fully with the Ethics Committee but will not comment further while the probe is ongoing.

House Ethics investigations remain closed-door until findings are released. Opening an inquiry does not establish wrongdoing. The committee has offered no additional details or timeline for completion. The probe places Gomez alongside other lawmakers recently scrutinized over staffer relationships, raising fresh questions about power imbalances on Capitol Hill and whether the California Democrat’s carefully cultivated image as a devoted family man can withstand the scrutiny.