In a recent House vote, Democrats' efforts to unveil an ethics report concerning former Rep. Matt Gaetz (R-Fla.) were thwarted. Rep. Sean Casten (D-Ill.) introduced a "privileged resolution" to compel the report's public release, a tactic requiring House leaders to address the resolution within two legislative days. However, the measure was defeated 206 to 198, with lawmakers voting to refer it to the relevant committee for review. Given the Republican majority in the committee, it's highly improbable that the report will see the light of day, effectively ending the Democrats' push.

Just one Republican, Rep. Tom McClintock (R-Calif.), sided with the Democrats. This attempt to disclose the report comes after Gaetz's recent resignation from Congress following an unsuccessful bid to become President-elect Donald Trump's attorney general. His departure also conveniently preceded the House Ethics Committee's planned consideration of the report's release. The committee had been investigating allegations against Gaetz for years, including accusations of sexual misconduct with a minor and illicit drug use.

House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La.) expressed his opposition to releasing the report, citing concerns about breaking with House rules and traditions. He warned that such a move could set a dangerous precedent. The House Ethics Committee has convened twice since Gaetz's resignation, failing to reach a consensus on the report's release on both occasions. The latest meeting occurred just hours before the House vote. Throughout this ordeal, Gaetz has steadfastly maintained his innocence. It's worth noting that a federal investigation into the same allegations concluded without charges against him.