Rep. Susan Wild (D-PA) has been identified as the source of leaked information from the incomplete ethics investigation into former Rep. Matt Gaetz (R-FL), according to reports. The House Ethics Committee, evenly split on whether to release findings about Gaetz, decided against public disclosure, but leaks still found their way to the media.

The leaks emerged amid Gaetz’s contentious nomination for attorney general, which faced strong resistance from Senate Republicans. Gaetz’s nomination was ultimately withdrawn after it became clear he lacked sufficient support.

Sources told The Hill that Wild admitted to leaking parts of the report. Her absence at a recent committee meeting, where Rep. Veronica Escobar (D-TX) served as acting ranking member, further fueled speculation about her involvement. Wild’s office claimed she skipped the meeting due to frustration over the committee’s handling of the case, dismissing other explanations as “inaccurate.”

Rep. Michael Guest (R-MS), chair of the Ethics Committee, stated that the group’s work is ongoing, leaving open questions about Wild’s future participation. Wild, who lost her re-election bid to Republican Ryan Mackenzie, is set to leave Congress at the end of the year.

Critics argue that the leaks were politically motivated, timed to derail Gaetz’s nomination. Gaetz, known for his vocal support of President Donald Trump, has been a polarizing figure in Washington. Despite the probe ending with his departure from Congress, the leaked information gave his detractors ammunition during the confirmation process.

This incident raises broader concerns about the integrity of the House Ethics Committee, with critics pointing to the potential misuse of confidential information for political advantage. The ethics panel’s ability to maintain trust is now under scrutiny, particularly as it deals with sensitive investigations.