Washington, D.C. – The Swamp Gets Filthier
The halls of Congress have long been seen as a battleground of ideas and ideals. Yet, recent revelations by Representative Matt Gaetz (R-FL) suggest that the corridors of power may be less about serving the people and more about serving personal bank accounts. In a fiery exposé shared by The Blaze, Gaetz took viewers on a tour through Congress in April 2024, calling out what he claims is rampant stock trading by lawmakers with privileged access to government information.
The video is getting attention again.
“FILTHY RICH”: Congressional Profiteering Exposed
Appearing in a video captioned “FILTHY RICH”, Gaetz didn’t mince words. Accompanied by a Blaze reporter, he pointed to specific offices of lawmakers on the House Ethics and Appropriations Committees who, he alleges, have enriched themselves through suspiciously timed stock trades. Gaetz cited examples, such as Representative John Rutherford, who allegedly purchased Raytheon stock on the day Russia invaded Ukraine. “Imagine if every American could make money off of what they knew was coming,” Gaetz remarked, alluding to the apparent insider advantage of these trades.
Gaetz didn’t stop there. He delved into energy sector trades, pointing to Representative Michael Guest, chairman of the House Ethics Committee, as another egregious example. According to Gaetz, Guest traded “tens and hundreds of thousands of dollars in energy stocks” while chairing a subcommittee with unparalleled access to sensitive energy-related government information. Gaetz quipped, “You’d think the ethics committee would be your best ally in this fight, but instead, they’re some of the most prolific traders.”
Shameless Opportunism or Legal Loopholes?
The revelations come as public frustration grows over the perceived financial privileges of those in power. Critics argue that the stock trading practices of members of Congress, while technically legal under current rules, represent a glaring conflict of interest. Gaetz lamented, “There’s no indication they want to slow down or recognize the appearance of impropriety. Instead, the pace seems to be accelerating.”
The Blaze highlighted the full extent of Gaetz’s tour, which unveiled more cases of dubious trades. To see the rest of Gaetz’s revelations, the video directs viewers to BetOnPelosi.com, referencing former Speaker Nancy Pelosi’s controversial stock trading history, often a lightning rod in discussions about congressional ethics.
A Call for Change
This exposé aligns with a broader push from Gaetz and other reformists to ban members of Congress from trading individual stocks while in office. Public trust in government institutions has eroded as stories of lawmakers profiting from their positions proliferate. Gaetz framed this as part of the broader fight against corruption in Washington, adding fuel to his ongoing battle to “drain the swamp.”
What’s Next?
The claims in the Blaze video amplify an ongoing debate about whether Congress needs stricter ethics rules to curb potential abuses of power. Gaetz’s tour is likely to provoke further scrutiny of lawmakers’ financial dealings and spark calls for legislative action.
Watch The Blaze video:
House Speaker Johnson Defends Gaetz and Ethics Decision
House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-LA) made headlines by defending his call for the House Ethics Committee not to release its report on former Gaetz. In a Sunday appearance on CNN’s State of the Union, Johnson argued that releasing the report would set a dangerous precedent, as Gaetz is no longer a member of Congress.
“The House Ethics Committee’s jurisdiction doesn’t extend to private citizens,” Johnson said. He framed the issue as one of principle rather than political pressure. “Matt Gaetz resigned. That should close the matter. Opening Pandora’s Box here would misuse House resources,” he stated.
Johnson also dismissed claims that his stance was influenced by President-elect Donald Trump. “I haven’t even spoken to him about it,” he said.
Gaetz: A Surprising Nominee for Attorney General
Trump’s announcement of Gaetz as his pick for attorney general left Washington stunned. Known for his controversial antics and MAGA allegiance, Gaetz is seen by some as unqualified for the role, especially given his limited legal experience.
“He has never appeared as an attorney in federal court,” noted legal experts. His history, which includes clashes with the Department of Justice (DOJ) and accusations of sexual impropriety (for which prosecutors declined to file charges), only adds to the controversy surrounding his nomination.
CNN reported audible reactions of disbelief within the DOJ upon learning of the nomination. “Oh my God,” was heard echoing in DOJ corridors, according to one official.
Polarizing Reactions Among Republicans
While some Senate Republicans openly questioned Gaetz’s ability to secure confirmation, others defended him as a disruptor who could reform the DOJ. Trump allies see Gaetz as a staunch warrior for the MAGA agenda.
“Matt knows what it’s like to be unfairly targeted,” said Florida attorney John Morgan. He added that critics underestimate Gaetz at their peril, calling him “uber smart” and “a pit bull.”
Democrats Slam Nomination as Dangerous
Democrats and some legal scholars expressed alarm over Gaetz’s nomination. Many argued that his lack of experience and history of provocative behavior make him unfit to lead the nation’s top law enforcement agency.
“Matt Gaetz would be a sharp departure from the norms we’ve tried to restore,” said one former DOJ official, referencing the contrast between Gaetz and outgoing Attorney General Merrick Garland.
Johnson on “Disrupting the Status Quo”
Johnson defended the broader wave of unconventional nominations by Trump, including Gaetz. “These are disruptors,” Johnson said, framing them as a response to voter frustration with the status quo. “The American people delivered a mandate for change, and these appointments reflect that.”
Johnson expressed optimism about the administration’s potential, emphasizing the alignment with America First policies. “These agencies need reform,” he concluded.
What’s Next for Gaetz?
Confirmation hurdles lie ahead for Gaetz, whose nomination has sparked a flurry of activity. Staffing firms reported increased inquiries from DOJ employees exploring private-sector options, signaling potential fallout within the department.
Gaetz’s rise, from Florida’s state legislature to Congress and now to a potential Cabinet position, underscores his resilience and ability to remain in Trump’s good graces. Whether this nomination succeeds or falters, it reinforces the MAGA movement’s determination to reshape the federal government.
Our coverage of President Trump’s other nominees: