Representative
The filing cites a 2018 House regulation that prohibits romantic relationships between members of Congress and their employees. This rule was established in February 2018 to address concerns regarding harassment on Capitol Hill and was previously utilized by the ethics committee during a 2019 investigation involving former Representative Katie Hill. Representatives for Boebert have categorically denied the allegations, characterizing the complaint as a politically motivated smear campaign and describing the claims as entirely false.
Details of the Ethics Complaint
The documentation provided by Wheeler outlines several specific allegations, claiming that the purported encounters occurred in various locations, including a staffer's office, a campaign-funded vehicle, and hotels paid for with campaign funds. Beyond the allegations of personal conduct, the complaint raises questions regarding financial transactions involving staff compensation.
According to the filing, the complaint references approximately $449,000 in compensation paid to staff, along with a $200,000 payment issued in March 2025. The complaint alleges that this $200,000 sum was provided to Ratzlaff following her resignation and her stated intention to file her own ethics grievance, suggesting the payment was intended to discourage such action. Ratzlaff has publicly described these claims as defamatory and false. Boebert’s office has not provided a response to inquiries regarding these specific financial allegations.
Public Response and Stance
Following Boebert’s rejection of the allegations, Wheeler utilized the official American Muckrakers social media platform to reiterate his organization's position. He maintained that the committee stands by its sources and the contents of the sworn complaint. Wheeler emphasized the personal risks associated with filing a complaint under oath, noting that he would not jeopardize his freedom or his family’s future by providing false information.
In his public statements, Wheeler challenged the congresswoman to pursue legal action if she believes the claims are fabricated, stating, “Please sue me.” He indicated that his organization intends to release further details regarding the matter in the coming days. As the situation remains in the early stages of the formal ethics process, Boebert’s team continues to maintain that the accusations are without merit and driven by partisan interests.
