A watchdog organization filed a complaint with the House Office of Congressional Ethics on Monday alleging a number of the House Democrats who took part in last week’s sit-in for gun control fundraised off their actions.
The Foundation for Accountability and Civic Trust claimed representatives and senators who participated in the 25-hour protest proceeded to solicit campaign and political contributions from the public.
The Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee had sent out an e-mail that was signed by House Minority Leader Nancy Pelosi, asking for 6,000 donations on behalf of the representatives’ demonstration.
As many as six other fundraising messages were sent out, including from New Mexico Rep. Ben Ray Lujan, Georgia Rep. John Lewis and California Rep. Jared Huffman.
FACT writes:
“The House ethics manual states: The House buildings, and House rooms and offices – including district offices – are supported with official funds and hence are considered official resources. Accordingly, as a general rule, they may not be used for the conduct of campaign or political activities. Thus, for example, a Member may not film a campaign commercial or have campaign photos taken in a congressional office.”
The Washington, D.C.,-based group has urged the House office to investigate its findings and take appropriate action.
