A conservative organization has filed an ethics complaint with the Senate Ethics Committee regarding statements made by Senator Ruben Gallego about House Speaker Mike Johnson.
The Center to Advance Security in America (CASA) submitted the complaint on November 6, requesting an investigation into two October incidents involving Gallego.
The first incident centers on an October 9 Instagram post where Gallego, a former Marine, referenced an interaction with Speaker Johnson in the Capitol. With his arms folded in the photo, Gallego said "[Mike Johnson] should be happy I had my arms folded. There's a reason why Marines fold their arms... it's a way to make sure we restrain ourselves."
CASA interprets this as suggesting potential physical violence.
The second incident occurred during an October 15 press conference, where Gallego stated that "Speaker Johnson is protecting pedophiles." The complaint characterizes this as a false statement related to disagreements over releasing the Jeffrey Epstein files.
CASA Complaint
CASA, which describes itself as a nonpartisan organization dedicated to American security, contends these comments may violate Senate ethics rules. The Senate Ethics Manual states that members should "conduct themselves with a proper respect for the principles of ethics and morality" and maintain the institution's reputation.
The complaint argues that senators can be disciplined for misconduct that "unfavorably reflects on the institution as a whole," even if not directly related to official duties.
According to Senate procedures, the Ethics Committee conducts a preliminary review when potential violations are identified. If credible evidence exists, a formal investigation may be opened.
The Ethics Committee has not announced whether it will pursue an investigation, and the group has requested that the committee consider "all appropriate forms of punishment available" if violations are found.
Senator Gallego has not publicly addressed the complaint.
