Mike Johnson Backs Ban on Lawmaker-Staffer Romantic Relationships

House Speaker Mike Johnson endorsed a proposal to ban members of Congress from engaging in romantic or sexual relationships with any congressional staffers, including those who do not work in their own offices. Speaking at a Tuesday news conference, Johnson argued that Congress should adopt professional standards similar to those used in corporate America to combat sexual harassment, stating such relationships are inappropriate in any workplace.

The push for a bright-line rule follows reports that Senator Ruben Gallego had romantic relationships with House aides during his tenure in the House. The move also follows the resignations of former Representatives Eric Swalwell and Tony Gonzales over misconduct. While House rules currently prohibit members from dating their own staff, GOP Conference Chair Lisa McClain and Democratic Women’s Caucus Chair Teresa Leger Fernandez have pushed to extend this prohibition to all staff to address inherent power imbalances that can lead to abuse.

Representative Kat Cammack is leading a bipartisan working group to further reform how Congress handles sexual misconduct. Cammack noted that while there is consensus on training and awareness, the group still faces challenges regarding accountability and ending retaliation. She has specifically called for an end to secret findings and resignation loopholes that allow offenders to avoid formal consequences.