Rep. Jimmy Gomez accused of sexual assault amid Capitol Hill reckoning
Rep. Jimmy Gomez is under investigation by the House Ethics Committee following allegations of sexual misconduct. While Gomez denies the claims, attorneys for an accuser have publicly disputed his assertion that the interactions were consensual.
Why it matters
The case reflects a broader pattern of scrutiny regarding sexual misconduct and professional ethics within the US Congress.
Hear this story A woman is accusing a California Democratic congressman of sexual assault and harassment, according to her attorneys.
The allegations against 51-year-old Rep. Jimmy Gomez, who denies wrongdoing, come amid a widespread reckoning that's been rocking Capitol Hill for months, prompting several high-profile resignations and campaign suspensions. They add to a mounting pile of scandals plaguing both Republicans and Democrats as the midterm elections approach.
The lawyers for the woman accusing Gomez of misconduct said this week's probe highlighted a broad and disturbing pattern.
"This is just the latest example of brazen sexual misconduct by a member of Congress," they said. "Congress must act to rein in its members who seem to believe that preying on young women working on Capitol Hill is one of the perks of their job."
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