The Senate Ethics Committee has dismissed the claims made against Senator Ruben Gallego, a Democrat from Arizona, regarding sexual misconduct and campaign finance violations.
This investigation was prompted earlier this year by allegations from Representative Anna Paulina Luna, a Republican from Florida, who characterized the claims as “very disturbing.” These accusations surfaced following controversy surrounding Luna’s own departure from Congress. However, after a thorough investigation lasting nearly a month, the committee informed Gallego that there was no supporting evidence for Luna’s allegations.
The committee’s letter stated, “We are writing to inform you that the Select Committee on Ethics has dismissed the complaint filed against you by Congresswoman Anna Paulina Luna.” They specified that the complaint involved allegations of campaign finance violations and inappropriate sexual conduct. They also noted that after requesting more information on two separate occasions in mid-April and mid-May, the investigation concluded there was no evidence that Gallego’s actions violated any laws or Senate rules.
In response, Gallego stated that the committee’s decision confirms what he’s insisted all along: that these accusations stem from a right-wing conspiracy involving far-right activists like Luna, as well as the White House. He expressed hopes for an apology from Luna, citing her weaponization of the ethics process while neglecting to investigate corruption that affects ordinary families. “In the meantime, I will continue to fight for Arizonans and hold Trump Republicans accountable for their costly and new wars,” he added.
Nevertheless, it seems an apology from Luna is unlikely. She retorted on social media, asserting that the allegations aren’t a conspiracy theory and criticized Gallego’s representation.
Luna, in a pointed remark, reminded Gallego of his personal life, saying, “Do I need to mention that you broke up with your pregnant wife during your Senate campaign? There are a lot of people who know about your antics.” She also encouraged him to continue fundraising for his defense, suggesting he might need it.
These accusations from Luna came soon after Representative Eric Swalwell, a close friend of Gallego’s, resigned in light of serious accusations of sexual misconduct against him. Gallego has since distanced himself from Swalwell, claiming that their relationship may have influenced how rumors about Swalwell were viewed in Washington.
Gallego is now facing scrutiny for a report indicating that he has used campaign funds for luxury travel, Super Bowl tickets, and childcare expenses. In response to this, he stated, “This is not breaking news. As child care costs soar and strain American families’ budgets, Democrats and Republicans alike in Congress and the White House regularly travel with their wives and children as permitted by the FEC.”
