The House Ethics Committee announced it is investigating whether Rep. Alcee Hastings’ relationship with a member of his congressional staff violates House rules.
The bipartisan panel began an investigation in May. Hastings, a Florida Democrat, has admitted he is in a long-term relationship with an aide in his district office.
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“The Committee is aware of public allegations arising out of Representative Alcee Hastings’ personal relationship with an individual employed in his congressional office,” the ethics panel member said in a statement Thursday.
“The Committee is specifically considering whether Representative Hastings’ relationship with the individual employed in his congressional office is in violation of House [rules] and whether Representative Hastings has received any improper gifts, including any forbearance, from that employee. The Committee continues to gather additional information regarding the allegations.”
Female lawmakers called out Hastings, 83, after freshman Rep. Katie Hill, 32, resigned after allegations she was involved in a relationship with her legislative director.
The ethics panel announced an investigation into those allegations, which came after photos surfaced that appeared to show Hill was also involved in a relationship with a staff member on her successful 2018 congressional campaign.
House rules prohibit lawmakers from engaging in personal relationships with their employees.
Hastings has admitted to the relationship with his deputy director, Patricia Williams. According to the Florida Sun-Sentinel, she is the highest-paid worker in his office.
