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PRESS

Rep. Michael Grimm (R-NY) Named One of the Most Corrupt Members of Congress

Washington, D.C. – Neither the U.S. Marine Corps (USMC) nor the FBI endorses candidates for office, a fact that Rep. Michael Grimm (R-NY) repeatedly overlooked during his race last year.  During the 2010 campaign, the Staten Island congressman repeatedly broke federal law by using the insignias of both in campaign materials, and continued to do so even after he was warned to stop.  In addition, after his election, he appeared in a promotional video endorsing a private security firm.  It’s no wonder he’s been named by Citizens for Responsibility and Ethics in Washington (CREW) as one of the Most Corrupt Members of Congress.  Click here to read the full report on Rep. Grimm.

“When given the choice of following the law, or illegally advancing his career and that of a friend, Rep. Grimm chose the latter,” said CREW Executive Director Melanie Sloan.  “His actions are shameful and he should be held accountable.”

Rep. Grimm served in both the Marine Corps and the FBI.  Early in his 2010 campaign, he used both the USMC and FBI logos on a flier for a campaign fundraiser.  Both groups vehemently objected; Rep Grimm promised to never do it again.  Months later, Rep. Grimm appeared in an advertisement wearing his Marine fatigues. He also aired television ads in which he displayed his FBI badge.

Federal law is clear:  it is a crime to use any official agency or department insignia without authorization.  It is also a crime to use the FBI’s name or initials in any ad that may imply endorsement. By continuing to use the logos, Rep. Grimm knowingly violated federal laws.  

In addition, House ethics rules bar members of Congress from endorsing commercial enterprises.  Nevertheless, Rep. Grimm made a two minute testimonial video endorsing MG Security Services, run by a former FBI colleague.  The video appeared on the firm’s website and can be seen on YouTube.

“As a former law enforcement agent, you’d think Rep. Grimm would be a little more assiduous about following the law,” said Ms. Sloan.  “The congressman’s actions make clear there is nothing he won’t do to get ahead or help out a pal.”

This is the 7^th edition of the CREW’S Most Corrupt Report, an annual look at a bipartisan collection of Washington’s worst.  This year’s list includes seven Democrats, and 12 Republicans.  Five are repeat offenders.  Since 2005, CREW has named 70 members of Congress to the list, 32 of whom are no longer in office.