A member of the so-called “Squad” is confirming she is the subject of a federal investgiation.
On Tuesday, Rep. Cori Bush (D-Mo.) said in a statement, “First and foremost, I hold myself, my campaign, and my position to the highest levels of integrity. I also believe in transparency which is why I can confirm the Department of Justice is reviewing my campaign’s spending on security services. We are fully cooperating in this investigation.”
Bush went on to assert she has “endured relentless threats to my physical safety and life” since she was sworn into office. She also claimed she used campaign funds “as permissible” to pay for security services.”
“I have not used any federal tax dollars for personal security services,” she insisted.
The congresswoman then claimed allegations she used federal funds for her security services came from “right-wing organizations” and are “baseless.”
Check out the full statement below:
CORI BUSH confirms she's the subject of a federal criminal investigation. pic.twitter.com/wSPNSJ3mSe
— Jake Sherman (@JakeSherman) January 30, 2024
Bush also noted the allegations referenced her husband and admitted to including him on her security because he has “extensive experience in this area, and is able to provide the necessary services at or below a fair market rate.”
Additionally, she shared she is facing an investigation by the Federal Election Commission and the House Ethics Committee.
The New York Times explains the Justice Department is looking into whether Bush “mishandled campaign funds, including when she hired her romantic partner — who is now her husband — to provide her with security services.”
Additionally, it noted the Office of Congressional Ethics previously investigated the allegation but recommended that the matter be dismissed.
“People familiar with the investigation, who spoke about it on the condition of anonymity, said federal prosecutors were asking questions similar to those asked by the congressional investigators about Ms. Bush’s security expenditures and the involvement of Mr. Merritts. The Justice Department inquiry has included subpoenas to members of Ms. Bush’s campaign team,” the Times reported.
