Rep. Michele Bachmann (R-MN) is one of the three Most Corrupt Members of Congress

story here http://www.citizensforethics.org/press/entry/crew-voters-pick-the-three-most-corrupt-members-of-congress

 

Washington, D.C. — This year's edition of CREW's Most Corrupt Members of Congress report contained both familiar faces and brand-new entrants to the congressional hall of shame, but a few transgressors stood out from the pack.  CREW's voters chose two House members, Reps. Michele Bachmann (R-MN) and Vern Buchanan (R-FL), whose conduct has spawned multiple investigations, as well as Sen. Mitch McConnell (R-KY), to share the title of the Most Corrupt Members of Congress.

Rep. Bachmann faces a spiraling investigation into possible criminal violations connected to her failed 2012 presidential campaign, resulting in her first appearance on CREW's list.  Rep. Buchanan, on the other hand, has now numbered among CREW's Most Corrupt five times for an extensive, illegal conduit contribution scheme that funneled money to his campaigns from employees and business partners connected to his car dealerships.  Although the Federal Election Commission and House Ethics Committee took no action against Rep. Buchanan, and the Department of Justice reportedly closed its probe into his actions, several other investigations are still pending.

"Rep. Bachmann could now give Rep. Buchanan a run for his money when it comes to egregious campaign finance violations," said CREW Executive Director Melanie Sloan. "On the other hand, given that Rep. Buchanan walked away scot free, Rep. Bachmann may not have too much to worry about."

Sen. McConnell, meanwhile, made the list in light of revelations his staff may have conducted opposition research for his reelection campaign on official time.  The minority leader, who was crowned Scoundrel of the Month earlier this year over the episode, has previously been named to CREW's Most Corrupt list four other times.

Nominations are already being accepted for October's Scoundrel of the Month.  People, entities, and agencies are all eligible.  Submit your choices by Friday, October 25th. Voting will begin the following week.

CREW's Most Corrupt:

• Michele Bachmann
• Vern Buchanan
• Mitch McConnell

Citizens for Responsibility and Ethics in Washington (CREW) is a non-profit legal watchdog group dedicated to holding public officials accountable for their actions. For more information, please visit www.citizensforethics.org or contact David Merchant at 202.408.5565 or dmerchant@citizensforethics.org