Character smear. In events like this the accusation is the goal, not the end result. It's undoubtedly an open shut case where the point for opposition is to intentionally lose to constantly bring it up in later articles. Shit like 'Matt gaetz, who was accused of xyz but case was dismissed' to leave a constant hanging doubt.

Essentially an attempt to turn him so rumor radioactive that any open or implied support is a blemish to one's career.