Good evening folks - 

I take seriously the responsibility you have entrusted in me to make Washington more competent and less wasteful. That’s why, every month, I identify areas of waste, abuse and inefficiencies, and give out my Squeal AwardContinue reading below for this month’s recipient. 


Squeal Award: Secretive Harassment Bailouts for Congress

You may have heard about the disturbing revelations that more than $17 million in taxpayer dollars has been used to settle congressional work place disputes over the last 20 years. It’s appalling to say the least that taxpayers are left on the hook to foot the bill for Members of Congress’s inexcusable and horrifying wrongdoings.

This is completely unacceptable

That’s why I joined a bipartisan group of my colleagues in introducing the Congressional Harassment Reform Act to overhaul the current system of reporting in Congress of any kind of harassment or discrimination, and provide victims with greater protections and choice.

Importantly, this legislation will require Members of Congress who have been found personally liable for harassment or discrimination to pay for settlements out of their own pockets - not yours. 

There cannot be tolerance for any type of sexual harassment or abuse in our society. Congress must lead by example and immediately improve upon how it addresses allegations of sexual harassment and other forms of discrimination to make sure that those who have engaged in misconduct are held accountable and the victims are protected. 

Because of this disgusting misuse of taxpayer dollars, I hereby present the secretive bailout of Members of Congress with this month’s Squeal Award.


The Congressional Harassment Reform Act in the News:

Click on the titles or images below to learn more...

KCRG-TV: Ernst joins bipartisan effort to curb sexual harassment in Congress

Quad City Times: Ernst joins Gillibrand on sexual harassment bill

KCCI-TV: Ernst helps introduce bipartisan Congressional Harassment Reform Act


Do you have an example of government waste or inefficiencies that I should take a look at? Send me an email by clicking here.

Thank you!