"Since becoming speaker, I have been contacted by federal authorities regarding an ongoing investigation related to the former speaker’s office. I have been, and I will continue to be in full cooperation with the authorities as their investigation continues," Sexton said in a statement. "On the advice of both ethics and legal counsel, I am placing everyone that was subject to the execution of today’s search warrants on administrative leave until further notice."
In a Jan. 8 press conference, Sexton said he could not release additional information as to why the offices were searched or the subject of the ongoing investigation. No indictments or arrests have been made, he said.
"This has been a trying week for our country, and this will be a difficult time for our state as well," Sexton said. "Personally these are our friends and colleagues that we have worked with for many years. It is important to remember that this is just the start of the investigation in the process and not the end."
In summer 2019, Casada resigned as speaker following alleged participation in inappropriate text messages with his former chief of staff. The House Republican Caucus voted to signal no confidence in his leadership, and Sexton was named as the new speaker during a special session. Casada's resignation from his leadership role became official Aug. 2, 2019.
Casada was recently re-elected to serve an additional term during the Nov. 3 election.
A request for comment has been made to Casada's office, and this story will be updated once it is returned.
