The Justice Department has initiated an investigation into allegations of potential misappropriation of funds for personal security services by Democratic Representative Cori Bush, as confirmed by the Missouri Democrat on Tuesday.
In response to the revelation of the federal probe, Bush issued a comprehensive statement affirming her full cooperation with the investigation and emphasizing her commitment to the highest standards of integrity and transparency.
Expressing her dedication to transparency, Bush acknowledged that the Department of Justice was scrutinizing her campaign’s expenditure on security services. She clarified that she, along with her team, is actively participating in the ongoing investigation.
US Representative Cori Bush (Credits: Reuters)
The House sergeant at arms has reportedly received a subpoena from the Justice Department seeking records related to Bush’s utilization of security funds, according to two sources familiar with the matter.
Bush, a member of the House progressives known as “the squad,” assumed office in 2021 after a career as an activist, nurse, and pastor. In her statement, she disclosed the existence of relentless threats to her physical safety and life since taking office.
Due to the absence of taxpayer-funded personal security, she utilized campaign funds within permissible limits to secure necessary security services. She clarified that federal tax dollars have not been used for personal security services.
Additionally, Bush revealed that her security spending is under review by the Federal Election Commission and the House Ethics Committee. Notably, the Office of Congressional Ethics examined the matter the previous year and found no wrongdoing, leading to a unanimous decision to dismiss the case.
In an August 2021 interview with CBS News, Bush defended her spending on private security, especially considering her advocacy for the “defund the police” agenda.
esponding to critics who deemed her actions hypocritical, she emphasized the threats to her life and questioned whether her detractors would prefer her demise.
Bush stressed the imperative of private security in ensuring her safety amid death threats and noted her husband’s involvement in providing security services, leveraging his extensive experience in the field.
The ongoing federal investigation adds another layer to Cori Bush’s security spending scrutiny. As the Justice Department delves into the matter, the congresswoman remains resolute in her commitment to cooperating fully with the investigation, maintaining transparency, and upholding the highest standards of integrity.
