The U.S. Department of Justice has initiated an investigation into the utilization of campaign funds by Missouri Democratic Representative Cori Bush, as per a statement issued by the congresswoman on Tuesday.
Missouri Representative Cori Bush refutes allegations of using taxpayer funds for personal security amid an ongoing DOJ investigation.
“Prior to taking office, I have faced continual threats to my personal safety and life. As an ordinary member of Congress, I do not receive personal protection from the House. Consequently, I have utilized campaign funds within legal bounds to secure private security services.
“I have not utilized any federal tax funds for personal security services,” Bush clarified. “Any assertions suggesting the use of federal funds for personal security are unequivocally inaccurate.”
The Justice Department refrained from providing a comment.
The investigation, initially reported by Punchbowl News on Tuesday morning, surfaced shortly after the U.S. House Clerk announced on the floor that the Justice Department had issued a grand jury subpoena for documents to the Sergeant at Arms. The statement did not specify the documents’ contents or the Congress member’s identity linked to them.
Unnamed sources cited by Punchbowl have claimed that there is an investigation into the utilization of her Member Representation Allowance (MRA) by Bush, a fund designated for congressional office expenses. MRAs are funded by taxpayer dollars and are annually approved in the Legislative Branch appropriations bill, distinct from campaign funds which originate from individual political donations.
Representing Missouri’s 1st Congressional District since 2021, Bush, whose district encompasses St. Louis and most of northern St. Louis County, stated in a written release that she is fully cooperating with inquiries from the Justice Department, the Federal Election Commission, and the U.S. House Committee on Ethics, all of which are examining the issue.
Bush attributed the allegations to right-wing organizations, particularly focusing on her husband’s involvement in her campaign. She clarified that her husband was retained for security services within the bounds of applicable regulations, citing his extensive experience in the field and his ability to offer services at or below fair market rates.
She dismissed the allegations against her as frivolous attempts aimed at diverting her attention from her congressional duties, emphasizing her commitment to boldly leading, legislating change, and serving her constituents’ needs amidst ongoing political challenges.
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