Dem Rep. Josh Gottheimer calls fake resignation letter 'disgusting smear campaign'

By Sarah Ferris

Rep. Josh Gottheimer (D-N.J.) said Monday he was targeted by a political smear campaign in which an unknown individual distributed a fake resignation letter to local officials and the press.

U.S. Capitol Police are investigating the highly unusual attack, his office confirmed.

The letters, which were sent over the last week, falsely claimed that Gottheimer was stepping down because of a personal scandal.

"This disgusting smear campaign is a violation of federal law and is being criminally investigated by the U.S. Capitol Police," Gottheimer said in a statement. "I am confident that they will quickly identify and pursue charges against the perpetrators responsible for this crime."

The letters, which were first reported by The Record, were printed on what looks like official congressional letterhead.

Gottheimer, a moderate Democrat, has served in the House since 2017.