A Day in the Life of Vern Buchanan: Bribery and Stonewalling

Embattled Congressman Vern Buchanan’s ethical problems are not going away anytime soon. Yesterday, the Office of Congressional Ethics unanimously found that “there is substantial reason to believe that Representative Buchanan attempted to influence the testimony of a witness in a proceeding before the FEC in violation of 18 U.S.C. § 201 [bribery of public officials and witnesses],1505 [obstruction of proceedings before departments, agencies, and committees], and 1512 [tampering with a witness, victim, or an informant].”

Some key highlights from the coverage: the former used car salesman apparently “knew of the laundered contributions,” he “tried to get his former business partner to lie,” and he refused to be interviewed by OCE investigators. 

New York Times: Report Casts Harsh Light on Republican’s Fund-Raising

Associated Press: Ethics panel: Rep. Buchanan may have broken law

Bradenton Herald: Ethics committee extends review of Rep. Vern Buchanan’s conduct

Roll Call: Ethics Panel Says It Will Continue Probe of Buchanan

The Hill: Ethics investigation of Buchanan extended

Wall Street Journal: House Ethics Committee Reviews New Rep. Buchanan Allegation

WTSP: House Ethics Committee still investigating Buchanan

And for dessert…we’re re-circulating this hilarious video.