House Ethics opens investigation into Rep. Katie Hill over alleged staffer relationship

WASHINGTON — The House Ethics Committee has opened an investigation into Rep. Katie Hill regarding allegations that she may have had a sexual relationship with a member of her staff.

The committee will gather additional information regarding the allegations, the committee said in a statement.

Hill denied allegations Tuesday she had an improper relationship with the man who is her legislative director. The California Democrat said in a statement that her estranged husband is attempting to humiliate her and suggested there is a “coordinated effort” to destroy her.

“The Committee notes that the mere fact that it is investigating these allegations, and publicly disclosing its review, does not itself indicate that any violation has occurred, or reflect any judgment on behalf of the Committee,” said Reps. Ted Deutch and Kenny Marchant in a statement Wednesday evening. Deutch and Marchant are the chairman and ranking member of the committee respectively.

On Friday, conservative blog RedState published a story detailing Hill’s alleged relationships with 2018 campaign staffers. The first allegation involved a female campaign staffer who entered into a relationship with Hill and Hill’s husband.

The second allegation is that Hill also had an extramarital affair with Graham Kelly, who worked for her campaign and is now her legislative director. A relationship with a current congressional staffer would be a violation of House rules.

Meanwhile, Hill says she’s asked for an investigation into intimate photos she says were posted online without her consent.

Hill said U.S. Capitol Police are “investigating the situation and potential legal violations of those who posted and distributed the photos.” She said the photos included her and “another individual” and declined further comment.

Hill is vice chair of the House Oversight Committee and a freshman liaison to Democratic leaders. She unseated an incumbent Republican in 2018 and is one of the few openly bisexual members of Congress.

The Associated Press contributed