Jake Tapper Ask’s Is GOP Losing Its Moral Compass?

CNN host Jake Tapper didn’t hold back during a Sunday interview with House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-LA), pressing him on his Christian values and the decision to block a controversial ethics report involving former Congressman Matt Gaetz.

The exchange came after Johnson, a vocal Republican leader and a self-described man of faith, refused to release findings from a House Ethics Committee investigation. The report allegedly details accusations against Gaetz, including a claim that he had sex with a 17-year-old. Johnson’s reasoning? He believes the report “should never see the light of day.”

“I have not discussed one word about the ethics report with the president-elect. Not once,” Johnson insisted to Tapper. “The Speaker of the House has no role in ethics committee matters. It’s inappropriate for the Speaker to get involved, to put a thumb on the scale.”

But Tapper wasn’t buying it. He fired back, reminding Johnson that the Ethics Committee has, in the past, published reports on members of Congress who resigned. “The House Ethics Committee has previously released reports about individuals who stepped down,” he pointed out.

Gaetz, who resigned earlier this year, has faced more than his share of scandals. In addition to the misconduct allegations, he’s been accused of boasting about drug-fueled sex parties on the House floor—a claim that continues to hang over his tarnished legacy.

Tapper didn’t stop there. He pressed Johnson on what this kind of behavior says about the Republican Party’s moral compass. “You and I have known each other for a long time,” Tapper began. “You’re a man of faith, a man of God, a man of family. With nominees like Gaetz, Hegseth, and RFK Jr., does personal morality even matter to Republicans anymore? Is this still a priority for the party?”

Johnson, attempting to pivot, emphasized that the party is focused on shaking up the status quo. “It’s an important issue for anyone in leadership,” he admitted. “But what I’ll say about the president’s nominees is that they’re disruptors. They’ll bring change.”

The conversation underscored a growing tension within the GOP as it wrestles with its public image and moral leadership. Tapper’s pointed questions highlighted the conflict between the party’s proclaimed values and the actions—or inactions—of its leaders.