House staff are compensated with taxpayer funds, and Members are directly responsible for ensuring their staff are only paid for official public work, work that has actually be performed, and at a rate commensurate with the work performed. A Member must “provide monthly salary certifications” for staff and staff can only be compensated “for duties performed within the preceding month.” Moreover, House staff are also required to abide by the spirit and letter of the ethics rules, including conducting himself in a manner that reflects creditably on the House.6 It was contrary to the House Ethics Rules for Wasserman Schultz to continue to pay Awan with taxpayer funds even after he was barred from the House computer system and could not perform his duties, and under criminal investigation.

It appears that Representative Wasserman Schultz permitted an employee to remain on the House payroll in violation of House Ethics Rules. After Awan was barred from accessing the House computer system, Wasserman Schultz continued to pay Awan with taxpayer funds for IT consulting—a position that he could not reasonably be able to perform. The Office of Congressional Ethics is responsible for ensuring each Representative fulfills the public trust inherent to the office and complies with the House’s ethical standards. Therefore, we urge the Committee to immediately investigate and take appropriate action in response to this apparent violation of the House of Representatives ethical guidelines.

To the best of my knowledge and ability, all evidence submitted was not obtained in violation of any law, rule, or regulation. Further, I am aware that the False Statements Act, 18 U.S.C. § 1001, applies to information submitted to the Office of Congressional Ethics.

Respectfully Submitted,

Matthew G. Whitaker

Executive Director, Foundation for Accountability & Civic Trust