House Democrats led by Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (D-N.Y.), Rep. Jason Crow (D-CO) and Rep. Mike Levin (D-CA) are launching a new “End Corruption Caucus,” according to details first shared with MS NOW on Tuesday.
The lawmakers said the caucus will focus on reducing the influence of dark money and corporate political action committees, increasing accountability in government, restricting lobbying practices and preventing foreign interference in elections.
“Corruption is poisoning our politics,” Crow said in a statement shared with MS NOW. “From the disastrous Citizens United decision, to the President using his office to enrich himself and his family, our democracy is buckling under the influence of billionaire donors and special interests.”
Ocasio-Cortez said, “The influence of big money in politics is a major reason why everyday Americans struggle to trust our institutions and our work in Congress.”
Trump Focus
The caucus launch comes as Democrats intensify criticism of President Donald Trump over alleged conflicts of interest, financial dealings and political influence.
Several Democrats have recently attacked a proposed $1.8 billion settlement arrangement tied to Trump’s IRS lawsuit. Sen. Mark Kelly (D-Ariz.) accused Trump of creating a “slush fund for his loyalists,” while Chuck Schumer described the proposal as a “MAGA slush fund.”
Democrats have also raised concerns about Trump’s family business activities. Sen. Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass) previously criticized Jared Kushner over efforts to raise billions of dollars from Middle Eastern investors while serving in a diplomatic role connected to the Trump administration.
At the same time, Trump-linked investment ventures tied to artificial intelligence, cryptocurrency and defense sectors have drawn additional scrutiny because several industries involved align closely with White House policy priorities.
Oversight Push
Levin said in a statement shared with MS NOW that “at no other point in American history have we seen corruption so rampant in our politics.”
“We must confront this corruption head-on, hold the powerful accountable, and ensure our government works for the people again,” Levin added.
The caucus also plans to introduce a congressional resolution condemning corruption and policies that lawmakers say benefit special interests at the expense of ordinary Americans.
Disclaimer: This content was partially produced with the help of AI tools and was reviewed and published by Benzinga editors.
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