Thompson, Thanedar, McIver: Kristi Noem Violated Even More Federal Laws When She Made Propaganda Video for Airports, Must Be Investigated
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(WASHINGTON) – Today, Rep. Bennie G. Thompson (D-MS), Ranking Member of the Committee on Homeland Security; Rep. Shri Thanedar (D-MI), Ranking Member of the Subcommittee on Oversight, Investigations & Accountability; and Rep. LaMonica McIver (D-NJ), Ranking Member of the Subcommittee on Transportation & Maritime Security, sent a letter to the U.S. Government Accountability Office (GAO) requesting an investigation into Homeland Secretary Kristi Noem for using government resources to produce and distribute a partisan propaganda video falsely blaming Democrats for the ongoing government shutdown. “The video is clearly intended to advance a partisan, political message and appears to have been filmed during the lapse in appropriations. Many airports have refused to air the video, citing its partisan nature,” the Ranking Members wrote. The Secretary seems to be in blatant violation of the Antideficiency Act, which requires agencies to generally stop their operations during a lapse in appropriations. One exception is that agencies may continue activities for emergencies involving the safety of human life or protection of property. “Secretary Noem’s partisan smears have nothing to do with protecting human life and government property. GAO should investigate,” the Ranking Members added. “Secretary Noem has made clear that her interest in appearing on camera at every turn eclipses her desire and ability to do her job to secure the homeland. Nevertheless, her desire does not negate her duty to follow the law. Secretary Noem’s use of government resources during a lapse in appropriations to produce and distribute a partisan political video is unprecedented, highly improper, and likely illegal. She must be held to account.” The Ranking Members also agree with other Members of Congress that Secretary Noem’s conduct likely violated other Federal laws, including the Hatch Act, and must also be investigated. Her actions are part of a broader pattern of Trump administration officials across Federal agencies abusing their official positions and government resources to advance their partisan and extreme agenda. # # # |
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