The House of Representatives’ internal watchdog is currently reviewing allegations against Texas Republican Rep. Lance Gooden. He described these allegations as “baseless” in a recent statement.
According to the House Committee on Ethics, they have initiated a probe involving Rep. Gooden. However, the specifics of this investigation remain uncertain. Gooden indicated that the inquiry relates to financial issues and denied any wrongdoing in a statement to Fox News Digital.
“These are bogus spending allegations perpetrated by dishonest unelected OCC bureaucrats, and as the fifth Texas GOP ally of the president to endure one of these attacks, I am confident the House Ethics Committee will confirm their baseless nature,” Gooden stated.
On June 10, 2026, a “matter” was reported to the Office of Congressional Conduct (OCC), and the committee has decided to extend their review. They plan to announce their next steps regarding this matter no later than November 9.
The OCC is an independent, nonpartisan entity responsible for examining allegations against House lawmakers, staff, and officers. Its work includes investigating issues related to earmarks, travel, financial disclosures, and legal expense funds, among other topics.
The current announcement suggests the Ethics panel is in a preliminary investigation stage. Lawmakers will now decide if the situation requires a formal probe involving an investigatory subcommittee.
Elizabeth Elkind, a politics reporter for Fox News Digital, leads the coverage of the House of Representatives. Her work has also been featured in the Daily Mail and CBS News.