Gallego Denies 'Very Disturbing' Allegations as Luna Names Arizona Democrat

Rep. Anna Paulina Luna broke her silence Thursday in an interview with CBS News, naming Sen. Ruben Gallego as the subject of her cryptic social media post earlier in the week alleging "very disturbing" conduct by an unnamed senator. Luna, a Florida Republican, said the allegations against the Arizona Democrat involve conduct that is "sexual in nature" and alleged campaign finance violations, though she provided limited specifics about the claims.[1] Gallego swiftly rejected the accusations. A spokesperson for the Democratic senator told CBS News the allegations are "right wing conspiracy theories being parroted by a fringe far right member of Congress," and stated that Gallego "has not received notification or been contacted by the ethics committee."[1] Gallego himself told reporters he has "never engaged in any sexual misconduct or other inappropriate behavior with staff or women outside of his marriage."[1] Senate Majority Leader John Thune confirmed Thursday that the matter has been formally referred to the Senate's Select Committee on Ethics. When asked about the credibility of Luna's allegations, Thune told reporters he was uncertain but acknowledged the referral had been made.[1] Luna claimed that Thune's office specifically confirmed to her that an investigation was underway. The public accusation marks an escalation in what began as a partisan dispute. Luna's initial cryptic post this week raised questions across Capitol Hill about which senator she was referencing. The specificity of her allegation—combining sexual misconduct claims with campaign finance violations—suggests potential coordination with investigators or legislative allies, though Luna has not disclosed her sources or evidence.[1] CBS News has not independently verified any of Luna's allegations.[1] The ethics committee probe will determine whether the claims warrant formal investigation or sanctions. Gallego's office has indicated the senator views the accusations as politically motivated attacks.