New Bill Proposed to Ban Sexual Relationships Between Congress Members and Staff

On Thursday, a new bill was introduced in the House aiming to prohibit sexual relationships between members of Congress and their staff. This follows recent revelations that have stirred controversy in the Capitol.

Rep. Nancy Mace (R-S.C.) is set to present two bills that clarify the boundaries regarding relationships between lawmakers and House staff. One bill seeks to ban sexual encounters with floor staff, while the other would prevent Congress members from cohabiting with their staff, aside from married couples living together.

“If you’re a member of Congress, your focus should be on serving your constituents and not taking advantage of your staff,” Mace shared. The proposed ban is intended for all lawmakers, regardless of gender, but particularly addresses concerns about male lawmakers exerting power over female staffers.

Mace further emphasized, “Congress isn’t a venue for personal relationships. If you can’t perform your duties without mistreating your staff, perhaps it’s time to consider another line of work.” She is adamant that staffers should not have to return home to someone who signs their paychecks. “It’s inappropriate, a conflict of interest, and it should have been addressed long ago,” she added.

Meanwhile, Sen. Ruben Gallego (D-Ariz.) is currently under scrutiny due to his past relationships with two House aides. While some defend his actions—arguing he didn’t breach any rules since he was unmarried at the time—not everyone agrees.

In addition, former Rep. Eric Swalwell resigned from Congress following allegations of sexual misconduct that derailed his gubernatorial aspirations. Swalwell has denied the claims, though he admitted to unspecified personal mistakes in a public statement.

On the Republican side, Rep. Tony Gonzalez from Texas stepped down amidst an affair scandal that led to the tragic suicide of a staff member. Similarly, Rep. Chuck Edwards (R-N.C.) faces a House Ethics Committee investigation regarding allegations of sexual harassment, which he denies.

The new proposals by Mace reflect a broader movement in Congress to establish clearer limits on relationships between lawmakers and their aides. Rep. Kat Cammack (R-Fla.), Rep. Jeff Krank (R-Colo.), Rep. Lisa McClain (R-Mich.), and Rep. Mike Johnson (R-La.) are all in favor of setting restrictions in this area, with Cammack and Krank introducing additional legislation to impose such boundaries.