Representative Jim Costa, a Democrat from California, was investigated following allegations of inappropriate conduct with interns, but the case has been dismissed by the Office of Congressional Conduct and the Ethics Committee.

Investigation and Allegations

The investigation stemmed from allegations detailed in a report by NOTUS, centering around interactions with a 22-year-old intern for another member of Congress in February 2020. The woman alleged that Costa made unwanted advances and behaved inappropriately during an event hosted by the California State Society.

Details of the Alleged Incident

According to the woman’s account, Costa asked her to dance and, upon her refusal, offered to help her career, providing his personal phone number and suggesting a dinner meeting. She interpreted this as a sexual insinuation. A witness reportedly cautioned her about accepting Costa’s phone number, expressing concern.

Later, the woman encountered Costa again, and he allegedly inquired about her relationship status while disclosing his own single status. She stated she delayed reporting the incident for several years, feeling more secure in her employment before coming forward.

Past Conduct and Reports

During questioning, the woman referenced a 1986 Los Angeles Times article detailing Costa’s apology for soliciting prostitution from a woman working with law enforcement. At the time, Costa was a California assemblyman accompanied by a 19-year-old sex worker.

The 1986 report detailed Costa’s admission of soliciting a prostitute during an undercover police operation while serving as an assemblyman in Fresno. Breitbart News also reported on previous accusations against Costa, including allegations of rape and sexual misconduct that led him to abandon a campaign for governor.

Breitbart News further reported that Costa announced his intention to retire from Congress after admitting to an affair with a former aide who died by suicide in 2025. These separate incidents contribute to a broader pattern of concerning behavior.

Broader Context and Ongoing Scrutiny

The dismissal of the case raises questions about the standards for investigating misconduct allegations against members of Congress. Investigations must be made public unless both offices agree to dismiss them, potentially allowing cases to be closed without full transparency.

Other members of Congress are also facing scrutiny. Senate Majority Leader John Thune’s office and Senate ethics officials are reviewing information regarding Senator Ruben Gallego, involving allegations of a sexual incident and potential campaign finance violations. A motion to expel Representative Cory Mills is also under consideration due to allegations of stolen valor and sexual misconduct.