1. United States
2. Maine
3. Letter

I am deeply concerned about the recent findings from OpenSecrets regarding the misuse of campaign funds in connection with the January 6 rally and subsequent Capitol riot. The report reveals that political operations linked to former President Trump and the GOP contributed at least $12.6 million to rally organizers since the 2020 election cycle began, with millions continuing even after the tragic events of January 6. What's particularly alarming is the lack of transparency in these financial transactions. The Trump campaign's use of American Made Media Consultants LLC has obscured payment details, making it difficult to trace the full extent of the funding. Event Strategies, which received the permit for the Jan. 6 rally, received $6.9 million from Trump's campaign since Election Day 2020. Additionally, BlueBonnet Fundraising, whose founder was listed as a 'VIP Advisor' for the rally permit, received $590,000 from the campaign. The January 6 Committee's revelation that Trump and his team raised $250 million through false claims of election fraud is equally disturbing. Donors were solicited for a non-existent 'Election Defense Fund', with over $5 million of these donations going to Event Strategies Inc. for the Jan. 6 rally. As Rep. Zoe Lofgren aptly stated, this is both "the big lie" and "the big rip off." I urge you to take immediate action to investigate these financial irregularities and hold those responsible accountable. We need stricter oversight of campaign finances and clearer regulations to prevent the misuse of donor funds for potentially seditious activities. Donors deserve transparency and assurance that their contributions are not being used to undermine our democratic processes. Please support efforts to enhance campaign finance transparency and consider introducing or backing legislation that would prevent such misuse of funds in the future. Our democracy depends on the integrity of our political system, and it's crucial that we address these issues to restore public trust.