Matt Gaetz Defends ‘Embarrassing’ Past Behavior

Former Rep. Matt Gaetz (R-FL) is defending what he says is “embarrassing, though not criminal” past behavior and taking a shot at the House Ethics Committee, following reports that the panel voted to release its findings about him, The Hill reports.

Said Gaetz: “In my single days, I often sent funds to women I dated – even some I never dated but who asked. I dated several of these women for years. I NEVER had sexual contact with someone under 18. Any claim that I have would be destroyed in court – which is why no such claim was ever made in court.”

He added: “My 30’s were an era of working very hard – and playing hard too. It’s embarrassing, though not criminal, that I probably partied, womanized, drank and smoked more than I should have earlier in life. I live a different life now.”