The House Committee on Ethics is investigating Rep. Lance Gooden (R-TX), as confirmed in a public statement by Chairman Michael Guest (R-MS) and ranking member Mark DeSaulnier (D-CA). The statement did not specify the allegations that led to the investigation. Guest and DeSaulnier emphasized that the referral does not imply any violation or judgment by the Committee.
The Office of Congressional Conduct (OCC) became aware of the matter on June 10. Gooden has denied the allegations, describing them as finance-related and labeling them as baseless. He stated, "These are bogus spending allegations perpetrated by dishonest unelected OCC bureaucrats."
The investigation follows a previous ethics inquiry involving another Texas Republican, former Rep. Tony Gonzales, which was closed after his resignation in April. The House ethics committee is expected to announce further details regarding Gooden's investigation on or before November 9, coinciding with the general election. Gooden is seeking a fifth term this year.
The OCC reviews allegations against House members and staff, typically focusing on issues such as earmarks, travel, and financial disclosures. It is unclear if the current investigation is connected to a 2021 complaint regarding Gooden's stock trades, which alleged he failed to report them in a timely manner, violating House rules and the STOCK Act.