Look at their source: according to New York Times

Look at NYT's source: "3 people briefed on the matter"

Look at the identities of the 3 people brie... Oh that's right, they are "anonymous"

If you read the NYT article, it's just screens of "why we hate Gaetz and ways we can throw shade at him because he talked to this person that was bad, or mentioned this other person that we found out was bad, or he is seen in a photo standing next to this bad guy"

"He's political allies with this guy yhat was charged. Actually their relationship is unknown, but he tweeted 'good job' after he won a seat, and they were inca picture together"

In short, to answer your question; fake news is fake news.