Writing in the Inland Valley Daily Bulletin, Michael Moodian lays out a challenge to Rep. Gary Miller (R-CA). Detailing Miller's multiple ethical transgressions, Moodian tells Miller to clear this up -- or resign. As noted, Miller was named one of the most corrupt members of Congress in CREW's report, Beyond DeLay. The author wonders whether Miller can effectively serve his constituents with all these ethical issues swirling around him:
The trail of alleged corruption and shady real estate involvements has been well documented throughout various media outlets. As reported in a 2006 article by Susan Crabtree of The Hill, Miller was a proponent of a transportation bill provision that would result in the closing of an airport in Rialto. The effect would pave the way for Lewis Operating Corp., a chief contributor to Miller's campaign and business partner of the congressman, to build a major development community on the land.
Additionally, The Hill reported that Miller might have violated House ethics rules when he borrowed $7.5 million from Lewis Operating Corp. The money was then used to conduct a real estate purchase from the company.
The Citizens for Responsibility and Ethics in Washington (CREW) has listed Miller as one of the 20 most corrupt members of Congress, bringing attention to controversial real estate deals (in which he's purportedly benefited by earning millions of dollars), his relationship with Lewis Operating Corp., and a consistent history of ethical concerns. Last year, CREW filed an IRS complaint against Miller citing "failure to report or pay capital gains taxes on several real estate transactions."
To add to this, a Los Angeles Times article by William Heisel detailed allegations by multiple aides stating that Miller utilized his staff members for a variety of tasks not related to government business - errands, assisting his kids with schoolwork and college registration.
The topper came when Miller, using official Congress letterhead, requested Rolling Stones tickets last Halloween from Ticketmaster.
This is a man who stated, after swearing in for his fifth term, "We must remain committed, stand strong and prioritize the federal government's obligations. Our agenda should remain focused on improving economic security, national security and homeland security for the American people."
How focused is Congressman Miller? It doesn't seem like he's concentrating much on serving the citizens of California's 42nd District.