Investigation Launched into Rep. Cori Bush's Hiring of Husband as Security

Rep. Cori Bush Under Investigation for Campaign Spending on Security Services

Rep. Cori Bush, D-Mo., has confirmed that the Department of Justice is currently investigating her campaign’s spending on security services. Speaking on the steps of the U.S. Capitol, Bush stated that she has faced continuous threats to her safety since before she took office. As a rank-and-file member of Congress, she is not entitled to personal protection by the House and has used campaign funds to retain security services.

Cooperation and Family Member Involvement

Bush has expressed her full cooperation with the investigation. She revealed that her now-husband is part of her security team and claims that he provides services at or below-market rate. According to congressional ethics rules, family members can be paid from campaign funds for legitimate services as long as the payments do not exceed fair market value.

Additional Reviews and Previous Investigation

In addition to the Department of Justice investigation, the Federal Election Commission and the House Committee on Ethics are also reviewing the matter. However, Bush mentioned that the Office of Congressional Ethics, which consists of career government employees, found no evidence of wrongdoing in a previous investigation and unanimously dismissed the case.

Increased Security Concerns

The investigation was made public when the House clerk informed lawmakers of a subpoena received by the House Sergeant at Arms. This comes at a time when security concerns are heightened following the January 6, 2021 attack on the U.S. Capitol. In 2023, the Capitol Police investigated over 8,000 threats against lawmakers, an increase from approximately 5,200 threats in 2018.

Furthermore, the attack on Paul Pelosi, husband of former Speaker of the House Nancy Pelosi, serves as a reminder of the dangers faced by politicians. In 2022, Paul Pelosi was violently attacked in their home, leaving him unconscious and injured. This politically-motivated incident highlights the need for increased security measures.