House ethics committee refers Guam Democrat delegate to Justice Department

The committee ultimately decided to focus its investigation on campaign finance violations rather than an alleged inappropriate relationship with a staffer

By Madeleine Hubbard

Published: June 26, 2022 7:33pm

Updated: June 26, 2022 8:08pm

The House Ethics Committee on Friday referred Guam Democrat Del. Michael San Nicolas to the Department of Justice after concluding that "substantial evidence" shows the delegate committed campaign finance crimes.

The Investigative Subcommittee (ISC) unanimously found that San Nicolas, a 41-year-old non-voting House member, "accepted improper excessive campaign contributions," according to a press release.

He also allegedly attempted to hide illicit contributions, filed false or incomplete campaign reports and even attempted to influence a witness in the Democratic-controlled committee investigation.

The House Ethics committee voted unanimously to accept the ISC's report and refer the evidence to the Department of Justice.

The ISC also investigated whether San Nicolas had a sexual relationship with a congressional staffer.

The House committee ultimately called the allegations "concerning" and said "Delegate San Nicolas’ decision
not to meaningfully address the allegations is alarming." However, the panel said it is better to prioritize its investigation into the campaign finance allegation, according to the 217-page ethics report.