Rep. Matthew Lyon (VT) (1798)

II HINDS §§ 1642-43

“Disorderly behavior” (spat on Rep. Roger Griswold after an exchange of insults)(Jan. 30, 1798); charge added of ”gross indecency of language in his defense before this House” (Feb. 8, 1798)

Committee on Privileges heard evidence and recommended expulsion (Feb. 2, 1798)

Censure resolution failed, 44-52;  expulsion resolution failed, 52-44 (Feb. 12, 1798)(expulsion requires a 2/3 vote)

Letter of apology (Feb. 1, 1798)

Rep. Roger Griswold (CT) and Rep. Matthew Lyon (VT)(1798)

II HINDS §§ 1642-43

“Disorderly behavior” (Rep. Griswold assaulted Rep. Lyon with a “stout cane” on the House floor before the House was in session and Rep. Lyon responded by attacking Rep. Griswold with fireplace tongs) (Feb. 15, 1798)

Committee on Privileges heard evidence and recommended against expulsion of both Members

(Feb. 20, 1798)

Committee report recommending against expulsion adopted, 73-21; motion to censure both Members failed, 47-48(Feb. 23, 1798)

Both Members pledged to keep the peace (Feb. 16, 1798)

Rep. Matthew Lyon (VT) (1799)

II HINDS § 1284;

Convicted of violating Sedition Act (Oct. 9, 1798), fined and served four months in prison while a member of the House

Expulsion resolution failed, 49-45 (Feb. 22, 1799)

Reelected after conviction

Rep. William Stanberry (OH)(1832)

II HINDS § 1248

Insulted Speaker during floor debate (July 9, 1832)

Censured, 92-44(July 11, 1832)

Rep. John Quincy Adams (MA)(1832)

REGISTER OF DEBATES, 22^nd Cong., 1^st Sess., 3905-3912 (1832)

Refused to vote on resolution to censure Rep. Stanberry (July 11, 1832)

Censure resolution tabled, 89-63 (July 12, 1832)

Rep. Sherrod Williams (KY)(1836)

CONG. GLOBE, 24^th Cong., 1^st Sess., 612-616 (1836)

Insulted Chairman of the Committee of the Whole House during debate (July 2, 1836)

Censured without formal vote (July 2, 1836); House “reconsidered” censure (July 4, 1836)

Rep. John Quincy Adams (MA)(1837)

CONG. GLOBE, 24^th Cong., 2nd Sess, 164-165 (1837); REGISTER OF DEBATES, 24^th Cong., 2d Sess., 1610-1686 (1837)

“[G]ross disrespect to this House” (requested to present a petition to the House purported to be from slaves) (Feb. 6, 1837)

Censure resolution withdrawn and substitute resolution rejected, 21-137 (Feb. 9, 1837)

Rep. William J. Graves (KY) and Rep. Henry Wise (VA)(1838)

II HINDS § 1644

Breach of the privileges of the House (Rep. Graves killed Rep. Jonathan Cilley (ME) in a duel over words spoken in debate; Rep. Wise acted as a second (Feb. 24, 1838)

Select Committee of Investigation adopted expulsion resolution for Rep. Graves and censure resolution for Rep. Wise (April 21, 1838)  

Resolutions tabled, 103-78 (May 10, 1838)

Rep. Alexander Duncan (OH) (1839)

II HINDS § 1245

Violated privileges of the House (published remarks in a newspaper insulting another Member)(Feb. 19, 1839)

Censure resolution tabled, 117-95 (Feb. 22, 1839)

Rep. John Quincy Adams (MA) (1842)

II HINDS § 1255

Breach of privileges of the House (presented a petition to the House from his constituents regarding dissolution of the Union)(Jan. 24, 1842)

Censure resolution tabled, 106-93; rejected motion to receive petitions, 40-166 (Feb. 7, 1842)

Rep. Joshua R. Giddings (OH) 1842)

II HINDS § 1256

“[U]nwarranted and unwarrantable” conduct (presented a series of resolutions related to slavery and negotiations with Great Britain (Mar. 21, 1842)

Censured, 125-69 (Mar. 22, 1842)

Resigned (Mar. 22, 1842); reelected and seated (May 5, 1842)

Colt Patent Investigation (1854)

H. REP. NO. 353, 33^rd Cong., 1^st Sess. (1854)

Bribery of Members of Congress to secure extension of patent on the Colt revolver

Select Committee appointed by House found that Colt’s principal lobbyist sought to bribe House Members and provided improper gifts (Aug. 3, 1854)

Committee report   tabled (Aug. 3, 1854)

Rep. Philemon Herbert (CA), (1856)

II HINDS § 1277

Arrested for manslaughter (May 8, 1856); imprisoned prior to trial; acquitted (July 1856)

Resolution  to refer the case to Judiciary Committee tabled, 79-70 (May 15, 1856)

Rep. Preston S. Brooks (SC)(1856)

II HINDS § 1621

Assaulted Sen. Charles Sumner (MA) on the Senate floor after the Senate had adjourned for the day (May 22, 1856)

Select committee appointed by the House recommended expulsion (majority report)

(June 2, 1856)

Expulsion resolution failed, 121-95(July 14, 1856)

Resigned after expulsion vote; reelected (Aug. 1, 1856)

Rep. Lawrence M. Keitt (SC)(1856)

II HINDS § 1621

Complicity in assault on Sen. Sumner

Select committee recommended censure (majority report)

(June 2, 1856)

Censured  (“disapprobation”) 106-96 (July 15, 1856)

Resigned after vote (July 16, 1856); reelected (Aug. 6, 1856)

Rep. Henry Edmundson (VA)

(1856)

II HINDS § 1621

Complicity in assault on Sen. Sumner

Select committee recommended censure (majority report) (June 2, 1856)

Censure resolution failed, 60-136 (July 15, 1856)

Rep. Orsamus B. Matteson (NY) (1857)

II HINDS § 1275

“Defamed character of House” (accepted money in exchange for supporting Minnesota land bill)(1856) 

Special committee recommended expulsion (majority report) (minority report found committee lacked jurisdiction)(Feb. 19, 1857)

Censured, 145-17; expulsion resolution tabled (Feb. 27, 1857) 

Resigned prior to House action; reelected, see below

Rep. William A. Gilbert (NY) (1857)

II HINDS § 1275

Accepted money for supporting legislation, see case of Rep. Matteson, above

Special committee recommended expulsion (majority report) (Feb. 19, 1857)

Expulsion resolution tabled after resignation (Feb. 27, 1857)

Resigned prior to House action (Feb. 27, 1857)

Rep. Francis S. Edwards (NY) (1857)

II HINDS § 1275

Accepted money for supporting legislation, see case of Rep. Matteson, above

Special committee recommended expulsion (majority report) (Feb. 19, 1857)

Expulsion resolution tabled after resignation (Feb. 28, 1857)

Resigned prior to House action (Feb. 28, 1857)

Rep. William W. Welch (CT) (1857)

II HINDS § 1275

Accepted money for supporting legislation, see case of Rep. Matteson, above

Special committee recommended expulsion (majority report) (Feb. 19, 1857)

Found insufficient evidence to expel, 119-42 (Feb. 27, 1857)

Rep. Orsamus B. Matteson (NY)(1858)

II HINDS § 1285

Corruption during preceding Congress, see above

Special committee recommended no further action (Mar. 22, 1858)

Expulsion resolution tabled, 96-69

(March 27, 1858)

Reelected after his resignation, see above

Rep.-elect John B. Clark (MO) (1861)

II HINDS § 1262 

“[T]aken up arms against” the government of the United States

Expelled, 94-45 (July 13, 1861)

Rep. John W. Reid (MO)(1861)

II HINDS § 1261              

“[T]aken up arms against” the government of the United States

Expelled (Dec. 2, 1861)(no vote recorded)

Rep. Henry C. Burnett (KY) (1861)

II HINDS § 1261

“[O]pen rebellion” against the government of the United States

Expelled (Dec. 3, 1861)(not vote recorded)

Rep. Alexander Long (OH) (1864)

II HINDS § 1252-53  

Supported recognition of the independence of the Confederacy in speech on floor of the House (April 8, 1864)

Censured, 80-70(April 14, 1864)

Benjamin G. Harris (MD) (1864)

II HINDS § 1254

During House debate on resolution to expel Rep. Long, see above, encouraged the Confederacy (April 9, 1864)

Censured, 98-20 (April 9, 1864)

Rep. John W. Chanler (NY) (1866)

II HINDS § 1246

“[A]ttempted a gross insult to the House” by proposing a resolution supporting a presidential veto (May 14, 1866)

Censured, 72-30 (May 14, 1866)

Rep. Lovell H. Rousseau (KY) (1866)

II HINDS §§ 1654-56

Assaulted Rep. Josiah Grinnell (IA) with a cane outside the Capitol for alleged insult spoken in debate (June 14, 1866)

Special committee recommended expulsion (July 2, 1866)

Censured, 89-30 (July 17, 1866)

Resigned (July 21, 1866); reelected  

Rep. John W. Hunter (NY) (1867)

II HINDS § 1249 

Insulted another Member during debate (Jan. 26, 1867)

Censured, 77-33 (Jan. 26, 1867)

Rep. Fernando Wood (NY) (1868)

II HINDS § 1247

Described Reconstruction legislation as a  “monstrosity” (Jan. 15, 1868)

Censured, 114-39

(Jan. 15, 1868)

Del. Edward D. Holbrook (ID) (1869)

II HINDS § 1305

Stated in debate that another Member made false assertions (Feb. 4, 1869)

Censured (Feb. 4, 1869)

Rep. Benjamin F. Whittemore (SC) (1870)

II HINDS § 1273

Sold appointments to military academies (1870)

Comm. on Military Affairs recommended expulsion

(Feb. 21, 1870)

Censured

(“condemned”),187-0 (Feb. 24, 1870)

Resigned prior to censure; reelected to the same session of the House; excluded from House after reelection, 130-76 (June 21, 1870)

Rep. John T. Deweese (NC) (1870)

II HINDS § 1239

Accepted money for recommending appointment to military academy (1870)

Comm. on Military Affairs recommended censure after resignation (March 1, 1870)

Censured,170-0 (March 1, 1870)

Resigned prior to censure (Feb. 28, 1870);

Rep. Roderick R. Butler (TN) (1870)

II HINDS § 1274

Accepted money for recommending appointment to military academy (1870)

Comm. on Military Affairs recommended censure (March 16, 1870)

Censured, 150-0 (March 16, 1870)

Rep. Oakes Ames (MA) (1873)

II HINDS § 1286

Sold $33 million in Credit Mobilier stock to Members of Congress and officials of the executive branch at undervalued price with intent to influence votes and decisions of the Members (1868)

Special committee recommended expulsion (Feb. 18, 1873); Judiciary Comm. recommended against expulsion because acts in question occurred three years before election to 42nd Congress (Feb. 24, 1873)

Censured (“House absolutely condemns the conduct”), 182-36 (Feb. 27, 1873)

Rep. James Brooks NY) (1873)

II HINDS § 1286  

Solicited and accepted 50 shares of  Credit Mobilier stock at undervalued price (1868) 

Special committee recommended expulsion (Feb. 18, 1873)

Censured, 174-32 (Feb. 27, 1873)

Rep. John Young Brown (KY) (1875)

II HINDS § 1251

Insulted a Member in debate and lied to the Speaker (Feb. 4, 1875)  

Censured, 161-79 (Feb. 4, 1875); unanimously agreed to resolution rescinding portion of censure regarding comments to Speaker (May 2, 1876)

Former Speaker concluded Rep. Brown “did not in any way intend to prevaricate or deceive the House” (May 2, 1876)

Rep. William King (MN) and Rep. John Schumaker (NY)(1876)

II HINDS § 1283

Corruption and false testimony before congressional committee 

Majority report of Judiciary Comm. concluded House had no jurisdiction to investigate alleged offense committed in a previous Congress that was being reviewed by the courts, 16-7(Aug. 9, 1876)

Directed Judiciary Comm. to investigate, voice vote (Jan. 24, 1876)

Rep. Charles Hays (AL) (1876)

H. R. Mis. Doc. No. 177, 44^th Cong., 1^st Sess.; H. REP. NO. 792, 44^th Cong.,  1^st Sess. (1876)

Accepted money to nominate an individual not from his district to military academy and made false certification regarding residency of nominee (March 4, 1875)

Comm. recommended House take no further action but concluded actions of Member “excites grave suspicions, and shows in any possible view a carelessness which ought not to be tolerated”, 4-2 (July 19, 1876)

Report of Judiciary Comm. tabled (Aug. 2, 1876)

Rep. James G. Blaine (ME)(1876)

H.R. MISC. DOC. NO. 176 (1876)

Newspaper articles alleged Rep. Blaine, as Speaker, sold worthless bonds to Union Pacific Railroad for $64,000 (1871)

Investigative subcommittee of Judiciary Comm. appointed and held hearings (May and June 1876); Rep. Blaine refused to produce letters and correspondence to Committee (June 10, 1876) 

Question of privilege raised  (June 5, 1876); Judiciary Comm. report ordered printed (June 6, 1876); motion to reconsider tabled, 127-90 (June 9, 1876)

Resigned (July 10, 1876)

Rep. Robert Smalls (SC) (1878)

H. REP. NO. 100, 45^th Cong., 2d Sess.  (1878)

Convicted of accepting a bribe while a state legislator in 1872 (Nov. 11, 1877); sentenced to three years imprisonment (served three days) (Nov. 26, 1877); released on bail pending appeal;  returned to Congress (Dec. 3, 1877)

Judiciary Comm. investigated circumstances of the conviction and determined that arrest of Rep. Smalls by state authorities for an alleged state crime and detention for trial did not violate any right or privilege of the House (Jan. 25, 1878)

Pardoned by governor (April 23, 1879)

Rep. John Van Voorhis (NY) (1883)

II HINDS § 1258 

Violated privileges of the House by insulting another Member during debate (March 1, 1883)

Censure resolution failed, 66-78 (March 1, 1883)

Apologized prior to vote

Rep. William Kellogg (LA) (1884)

II  HINDS § 1287

Corruption for conduct that occurred prior to  election to the House

According to Hinds, “no report appears to have been made.”

Rep. Kellogg raised a question of privilege (asked  Justice Dept. to investigate); resolution referred to the Judiciary Comm., 82-49 (May 23, 1884)

Rep. William D. Bynum (IN) (1890)

II HINDS § 1259

Insulted another Member during debate (May 17, 1890)

Censured 126-104 (May 17, 1890)

Rep. George Lilley (CT)(1908)

VI CANNON § 400

Contempt of House (made false charges of corruption regarding another Member) (1908)

Select Committee adopted report concluding Rep. Lilley made false allegations against another Member and acted in contempt of House by disavowing letter reflecting on honor and integrity of other Members of the House (May 20, 1908)

Approved report and conclusions of Select Comm., 159-82 (May 20, 1908)

Rep. James McDermott (IL (1914)

VI CANNON §§ 396-398

Newspaper articles alleged National Association of Manufacturers and other groups attempted to bribe numerous Members of Congress (June 1913)

Select Committee to Investigate Lobby Charges recommended censure of Rep. McDermott and exonerated six other Members (Dec. 9, 1913); Judiciary Comm. recommended resolution “strongly” condemning conduct of Rep. McDermott (April 24, 1914)

Resigned prior to House action (July 21, 1914); reelected  (Nov. 1914)

Rep. Thomas L. Blanton (TX) (1921)

VI CANNON § 236

Inserted a document in  Congressional Record containing indecent and obscene language (Oct. 22, 1921)

Censured (“resolution of reprimand and censure”), 293-0 (Oct. 27, 1921)

Apologized (Oct. 28, 1921)

Rep. John Langley (KY) and Rep. Frederick Zihlman (MD) (1924)

VI CANNON §§ 402-403

Grand jury reported to court that “certain sums of money were paid to two Members of Congress” (1924); Rep. Langley convicted of conspiracy to violate National Prohibition Act [18 U.S.C. § 371] (May 13, 1924)

Special Comm. recommended no further action against Rep. Zihlman and to defer action on Rep. Langley until conclusion of criminal appeal (May 15, 1924)

Rep. Zihlman was acquitted of the criminal charge; Rep. Langley did not participate in proceedings of the House after conviction

Rep. John Langley (KY)(1926)

VI CANNON § 238

Conviction affirmed by appeals court (Nov. 13, 1925)

Special Comm. concluded that House could not expel a Member for action prior to election; recommended no action until decision by Supreme Court (Dec. 22, 1925)

Referred credentials to special committee after reelection  (Dec. 9, 1925)

Reelected (fall 1925); resigned after Supreme Court declined to review case (Jan. 11, 1926)

Rep. Adam Clayton Powell (NY) (1967)

H. REP. NO. 2349, 89^th Cong. 2d Sess. (1966); H. REP. NO. 27, 90th Cong., 1^st Sess. (1967)  

Used committee travel funds for personal travel while Chairman of Education and Labor Comm., improperly authorized clerk hire payments to his wife and contempt of court (failed to comply with four state court orders, including one criminal conviction for contempt) (Nov. 17, 1966)

Comm. on Education and Labor concluded funds were used for non-official travel and found “strong presumption” that wife did not perform the services for which she was paid with congressional funds (Jan. 3, 1967); Select Committee appointed by House recommended censure, $40,000 restitution and reduction of seniority (Feb. 23, 1967)

Excluded, 307-116 (March 1, 1967); seated after reelection to 91^st Cong., fined $25,000 and seniority reduced, 254-158 (Jan. 3, 1969)

Reelected to 90^th Congress after exclusion but did not take seat (Apr. 11, 1967), reelected to 91^st Congress; Supreme Court held exclusion unconstitutional, see

(Powell v. McCormack, 395 U.S. 486 (1969)

Investigation into Voting Discrepancies (1969)

115 Cong. Rec., 16629 (June 19, 1969)

Alleged irregularities in House voting procedures (Members who were out of town recorded as having voted) (1968)

Speaker referred report by Clerk to Standards Comm. (Sept. 27, 1968); ordered staff inquiry (Oct. 1, 1968); reported to House (June 19, 1969)

Tally Clerk resigned; Comm. determined that honest errors accounted for discrepancies; recommended installation of modernized voting system

Rep. John Dowdy (TX)(1971)

H. REP. No. 92-1039, 92^nd Cong., 2d Sess. (1972)

Convicted on eight counts of conspiracy (to violate bribery statute and obstruction of justice statute), interstate travel to facilitate bribery and perjury (received $25,000 to hinder a federal investigation of a Maryland company in 1965) (Dec. 31, 1971) 

Comm. reported H. Res. 933 (sense of the House that any Member sentenced to two or more years’ imprisonment should refrain from voting on House or Committee business), 10-2 (May 3, 1972); Rules Comm. did not report H. Res. 933 in 92^nd Cong.; unanimously adopted H. Res. 46 (March 12, 1975)

Passed H. Res. 46, 360-37 (April 16, 1975)(adding clause 10 to Code of Official Conduct, stating policy of House that Member convicted of a serious crime  voluntarily refrain from voting)  

Refrained from voting on the floor or in committee and from participating in committee business after conviction; declined to run for reelection; 4^th Circuit Court of Appeals reversed convictions on five of eight counts but upheld three perjury convictions(1973), see U.S. v. Dowdy, 479 F.2d 213 (4^th Cir., 1973)   

Rep. Michael J. Harrington (MA) (1975)

H. REP. NO. 94-1792, 94^th Cong., 2d Sess. 3-4 (1977)

Public disclosure of executive session testimony by CIA Director to House Armed Services Investigations Subcommittee (Apr. 22, 1974); [House Rule  11, clause 27(o)(93^rd Cong.); Armed Services Comm. R. 10]

Complaint filed by a Member (Sept. 5, 1975); Comm. adopted resolution directing investigation, 7-2 (Oct. 21, 1975); complaint dismissed, 7-3 (Nov. 6, 1975)

Comm. determined information had not been properly classified

Rep. Robert L.F. Sikes (FL)(1976)

H. REP. NO. 94-1364, 94^th Cong., 2d Sess. (1976)

Improper financial disclosure [R. 44] and conflict of interest [Code of Ethics for Government Service ¶ 5]

44 Members of the House transmitted complaint by an outside organization (April 6, 1976); Comm. voted to conduct inquiry, 9-0 (April 9, 1976); found violations of R. 44, and the Code of Ethics, recommended reprimand, 10-2 (July 21, 1976)

Reprimanded, 381-3(July 29, 1976)

Comm. found Rep. Sikes failed to disclose stock holdings, invested in bank stock while engaged in official actions on behalf of bank and sponsored legislation without disclosing personal interest in property

Rep. Wayne L. Hays (OH) (1976)

H. REP. NO. 94-1792, 94^th Cong., 2d Sess., at 4 (1977)

Retained employee on public payroll for immoral purposes (1974-76)

Rep. Hays and other members requested Comm. investigate press allegations; Comm. ordered investigation (June 2, 1976)

Resigned prior to hearings (Sept. 1, 1976)

Rep. Andrew J. Hinshaw (CA) (1976)

H. REP. NO. 94-1477, 94^th Cong., 2d Sess. (1976)

Convicted of state bribery charges for conduct prior to election (Jan. 26, 1976)

Comm. recommended against expulsion (lack of jurisdiction for actions committed prior to service in House), 10-2 (Sept. 1, 1976)

Expulsion resolution referred to Standards Comm. (June 30, 1976); expulsion resolution tabled

(Oct. 1, 1976)

Refrained from voting pending appeal; lost primary (June 8, 1976); convicted of additional charges (theft of public funds)(Dec. 3, 1976)

Investigation  Concerning Unauthorized Publication of the Report of the Select Committee on Intelligence (1976) 

H. REP. NO. 94-1754, 94^th Cong., 2^nd Sess. (1976)

Improper publication of  Select Intelligence Committee report (Feb. 13, 1976)

Public hearings (July 19-21, 1976); CBS reporter subpoenaed (Aug. 25, 1976); reporter refused to answer questions (Sept. 15, 1976); Comm. declined to recommend prosecution or sanctions against reporter (Sept. 22, 1976); adopted report, 7-1 (Sept. 29, 1976)

House directed Standards Comm. to investigate, 269-115 (Feb. 19, 1976)

Comm. concluded the leak to press came from the legislative branch but could not identify the person who made the report available to press

Rep. Edward J. Patten (NJ) (1978)

H. REP. NO. 95-1740, 95^th Cong., 2d Sess. (1978); H. REP. NO. 95- 1817, 95^th Cong., 2d Sess. (1978)

Made political contribution with funds provided by another [R. 43(1)] (1975)

Conducted inquiry pursuant to House resolution and adopted Statement of Alleged Violation (“SAV”) (July 12, 1978); held public investigative hearing (Sept. 26, 1978); dismissed charges, 8-0 (Oct. 4, 1978)

Adopted resolution instructing Comm. on Standards to investigate,    388-0 (Feb. 9, 1977)

Korean Influence Investigation

Rep. Charles H. Wilson (CA) (1978)

H. REP. NO. 95-1741, 95^th Cong., 2d Sess. (1978)

False statement on answer to Standards Committee questionnaire regarding Korean Influence Investigation [R. 43(1)] (July 28, 1977)

Conducted inquiry and adopted SAV (July 12, 1978); held public investigative hearing (Sept. 14, 1978); sustained count with a modification to the language of the SAV, 8-1 (Sept. 27, 1978); recommended reprimand, 8-1 (Sept. 27, 1978)

Adopted resolution instructing Comm. on Standards to investigate,    388-0 (Feb. 9, 1977); reprimanded, 329-41(Oct. 13, 1978)

Korean Influence Investigation

Rep. John J. McFall (CA) (1978)

H. REP. NO. 95-1742, 95^th Cong., 2d Sess. (1978)

Failed to report $3000 campaign contribution  [R. 43(1)](1974)

Conducted inquiry and adopted SAV (July 12, 1978); held public investigative hearing (Sept. 20, 21, 25, 1978); sustained first count of SAV, 8-3 and recommended reprimand, 8-2 (Oct. 4, 1978)

Adopted resolution instructing Comm. on Standards to investigate,    388-0 (Feb. 9, 1977); reprimanded, voice vote (Oct. 13, 1978)

Korean Influence Investigation; resigned (Dec. 31, 1978)

Rep. Edward J. Roybal (CA) (1978)

H. REP. NO. 95-1743, 95^th Cong., 2d Sess. (1978)

Failed to report campaign contribution  [R. 43(1)], converted campaign funds to personal use [R. 43(6)], made false statement to Standards Comm. [R. 43(1)] (1974)

Conducted inquiry and adopted SAV (July 12, 1978); held public investigative hearing (Sept. 13, 1978); sustained three of four SAV counts (modified language of two counts and dismissed false statement count), 9-0 and recommended censure (Sept. 27, 1978)

Adopted resolution instructing Comm. on Standards to investigate,    388-0(Feb. 9, 1977); rejected censure recommendation, 219-170; reprimanded, voice vote (Oct. 13, 1978)

Korean Influence Investigation

Rep. Joshua Eilberg (PA)(1978)

H. REP. NO. 95-1818, 95^th Cong., 2d Sess., at 3 (1978)

Indicted for conflict of interest (helped hospital receive federal grant)[18 U.S.C. § 203](Oct. 24, 1978)

Conducted inquiry and adopted SAV (Sept. 13, 1978)

Defeated for reelection (Nov. 1978)

Rep. Charles C. Diggs, Jr. (MI) (1979)

H. REP. NO. 96-351, 96^th Cong., 1^st Sess. (1979)

Convicted of 11 counts of mail fraud [18 U.S.C. § 1341] and 18 counts of false statements [18 U.S.C. § 1001] (Oct. 7, 1978)

Member Complaint filed (Feb. 2, 1978); Investigative Subcommittee appointed (Feb. 7, 1978); resolution to conduct inquiry adopted, 9-0 (March 21, 1979); SAV adopted, 10-0 (April 4, 1979); Member admitted violating R. 43(1) and 43(8), apologized and agreed to make restitution of $40,031.66 (June 27, 1979); recommended censure, 11-0 (June 29, 1979)

Expulsion resolution offered and referred to Comm. on Standards, 322-77 (March 1, 1979); censured, 414-0 (July 31, 1979)

Reelected after conviction (Nov. 7, 1978); resigned after losing criminal appeal (June 3, 1980)

Iran Investigation (1979)

Comm. Print (1979)

Bribery and blackmail of Members of Congress by former Iranian Ambassador

Appointed Special Counsel and directed staff to investigate (March 19, 1979); staff report made public (Oct. 24, 1979)

Staff concluded there was no evidence indicating misconduct

Rep. Daniel J. Flood (PA) (1980)

H. REP. NO. 96-856, 96^th Cong., 2d Sess. (1980)

Used official influence on behalf of private parties and foreign governments in return for unlawful payments

[R. 43(1), R. 43(3); Code of Ethics ¶ 5]

Special Counsel appointed, Investigative subcommittee established (April 19, 1978); SAV adopted (June 7, 1979); disciplinary hearing deferred due to hospitalization (Dec. 12, 1979); report filed (March 26, 1980) 

Resigned (effective Jan. 31, 1980); pleaded guilty to misdemeanor (conspiracy to defraud government) (Feb. 26, 1980)

South African Investigation (1980)

Comm. Print (1980)

Bribery of Members of Congress by South African government and improper travel by Members and staff

Appointed Special Counsel; staff report released (May 14, 1980)

Report found no evidence of intentional misconduct

Voting Anomalies in the House of Representatives (1980)

H. REP. NO. 96-991, 96^th Cong., 2d Sess.(1980)

Votes recorded in the name of two Members who were not present (May 14, 1979 and July 30, 1979)

Member requested inquiry; Subcommittee appointed (Sept. 30, 1979); report filed (May 15, 1980)

Comm. determined existing rules provided insufficient basis for a penalty;  recommended amendment to House R. 8 clearly prohibiting proxy voting

Rep. Charles H. Wilson (CA) (1980)

H. REP. NO. 96-930 (Parts 1 and 2), 96^th Cong., 2d Sess. (1980)

Accepted money from person with direct interest in legislation [R. 43(1), R. 43(4)]; maintained person on payroll not performing duties commensurate with pay [R. 43(8)]; personal use of campaign funds [R. 43(6)]

Investigative Subcommittee appointed (Feb. 7, 1979); adopted motion to conduct an inquiry, 7-0 (Nov. 28, 1979); SAV adopted, 7-2 (Dec. 12, 1979); disciplinary hearing (March 21-April 16, 1980); sustained 8 counts of amended SAV (April 16, 1980);  recommended censure and denial of chairmanship, 10-2 (April 24, 1980)

Agreed to amendment deleting denial of chairmanship from sanction, 261-148; censured, voice vote (June 10, 1980)

Defeated in primary (June 3, 1980)

Rep. Michael J. Myers (PA) (1980)

H. REP. NO. 96-1387, 96^th Cong., 2d Sess. (1980)

Convicted of bribery, conspiracy and Travel Act violations (Aug. 30, 1980)

Preliminary inquiry voted (Sept. 3, 1980); Special Counsel hired; adopted SAV (Sept. 16, 1980); recommended expulsion, 10-2 (Sept. 24, 1980)

Resolutions to investigate (Oct. 2, 1980 and March 4, 1981); expelled, 376-30 (Oct. 2, 1980)

ABSCAM Investigation; SAV charged violations of House R. 43(1), House R. 43(2), and House R. 43(3)

Rep. John Jenrette, Jr. (SC) (1980)

H. REP. NO. 96-1537, 96^th Cong., 2d Sess. (1980)

Convicted of bribery and conspiracy  (Oct. 7, 1980); accepted money in return for promising to use official influence

[H. R. 43(1)-(3)]

Preliminary inquiry voted (Nov. 13, 1980); adopted SAV (Dec. 3, 1980); sanction hearing terminated by resignation (Dec. 10, 1980); report filed (Dec. 16, 1980)

Resolutions to investigate (Oct. 2, 1980 and March 4, 1981)

ABSCAM Investigation; defeated for reelection (Nov. 1980); resigned (Dec. 10, 1980); SAV charged violations of R. 43(1)-(3)

Rep. Raymond F. Lederer (PA) (1981)

H. REP. NO. 97-110, 97^th Cong., 1^st Sess. (1981)

Convicted of bribery, acceptance of an unlawful gratuity, conspiracy and Travel Act violations (Jan. 9, 1981)

Preliminary inquiry voted (March 11, 1981); adopted SAV (April 2, 1981);  expulsion recommended, 10-2 (April 28, 1981); report filed (May 20, 1981)

Resolutions to investigate (Oct. 2, 1980 and March 4, 1981)

ABSCAM Investigation; resigned (Apr. 29, 1981); SAV charged violations of R. 43(1)-(3)

Rep. John Murtha (PA)(1981)

H. REP. NO. 97-1004, 97^th Cong., 1^st Sess., at 6 (1983)

Bribery and conspiracy

Preliminary inquiry voted (May 28, 1981);  dismissed (July 28, 1981) (Special Counsel resigned)

Resolutions to investigate (Oct. 2, 1980 and March 4, 1981)

ABSCAM Investigation;  recused from   ABSCAM-related investigations (member of Standards Comm.)

Rep. Frederick W. Richmond (NY) (1982)

H. REP. NO. 97-1004, 97^th Cong., 1^st Sess., at 6 (1983)

Pleaded guilty to  felony charge of evading federal taxes, two misdemeanors involving a government contract, and misdemeanor possession of marijuana (Aug. 25, 1982)

Preliminary inquiry voted (May 12, 1982); deferred at request of Justice Dept. ("DOJ")

Resigned (Aug. 25, 1982)

“Sex and Drugs Investigation” (1982-1983) 

H. REP. NO. 97-965, 97th Cong., 2nd Sess. (1982); H. REP. NO. 98-205, 98th Cong., 1st Sess. (1983); H. REP. NO. 98-297, 98th Cong., 1st Sess. (1983); H. REP. NO. 98-559, 98th Cong., 1st Sess. (1983) 

Investigation of improper sexual conduct, illicit use or distribution of drugs and preferential treatment of House employees

Appointed Special Counsel and voted three preliminary inquiries regarding the sex investigation and six preliminary inquiries regarding the drug investigation, see below

Direct Standards Comm. to investigate, 407-1 (July 13, 1982); voice vote (Jan. 3, 1983)

Rep. Gerry Studds (MA) (1983)

H. REP. NO. 98-295, 98th Cong., 1st Sess.(1983)

Sexual relationship with 17-year old male House page that occurred 10 years earlier in 1973 [R. 43(1)]

Special Counsel investigated;  recommended reprimand and filed report, 11-1 (July 14, 1983)

Rejected reprimand recommendation, 289-136; Censured, 421-3 (July 20, 1983)

Sex and Drugs Investigation, admitted consensual relationship and waived right to SAV

Rep. Daniel Crane (IL)(1983)

H. REP. NO. 98-296, 98th Cong., 1st Sess. (1983)

Sexual relationship with 17-year old female House page in 1980 [R. 43(1)]

Special Counsel investigated; SAV adopted, recommended reprimand, 11-1 July 14, 1983)

Rejected reprimand recommendation, 289-136; Censured, 421-3 (July 20, 1983)

Sex and Drugs Investigation, apologized to House and admitted to consensual relationship; defeated for reelection

Majority Assistant Cloakroom Manager Robert Yesh (1983)

H. REP. NO. 98-559, 98th Cong., 1st Sess., at 15, 57-60, 63, 65-67, 71-72 (1983)

Sold and used cocaine; used marijuana and cocaine with House pages

Preliminary Inquiry voted (Dec. 14, 1982)

Sex and Drugs Investigation, resigned (April 15, 1983); pleaded guilty to two federal misdemeanors (March 9, 1983)

James Beattie (Doorkeeper’s Office) (1983)

H. REP. NO. 98-559, 98th Cong., 1st Sess., at 65-66, 71, 76 (1983)

Sold and used cocaine

Preliminary Inquiry (date not made public)

Sex and Drugs Investigation, resigned (May 16, 1983); pleaded guilty to two federal misdemeanors (July 28, 1983)

Majority Chief Page James C. Howarth (1983)

H. REP. NO. 98-548, 98th Cong., 1st Sess. (1983); H. REP. NO. 98-559, 98th Cong., 1st Sess., at 192, 232-235, 322-323, 348-359

Sexual relationship with a 17-year old female House page who was under his direct supervision [R. 43(1)], used cocaine, and preferential treatment of employee (allowed page to miss work)

Preliminary Inquiry voted (Dec. 14, 1982); SAV adopted (July 14, 1983); hearing on SAV (Oct. 31, 1983); sustained count regarding sexual relationship and dismissed other charges, 11-0 (Nov. 9, 1983); recommended dismissal, 11-0 (Nov. 15, 1983)

Sex and Drugs Investigation, resigned prior to House action (Nov. 15, 1983)

Rep. Charles Wilson (TX) (1983)

H. REP. NO. 98-559, 98th Cong., 1st Sess., at 4, 15-16, 49-56, 395-397 (1983)

Used cocaine and marijuana

Preliminary Inquiry voted; Special Counsel investigated and found no basis for SAV; Comm. took no further action (Nov. 17, 1983)

Sex and Drugs Investigation

Rep. Ronald Dellums (CA)(1983)

H. REP. NO. 98-559, 98th Cong., 1st Sess., at 3-4, 15-16, 56-63, 398-401, 406-409, 411-419 (1983)

Used cocaine and marijuana

Preliminary Inquiry voted (March 15, 1983); Special Counsel investigated and found no basis for charges; Comm. took no further action (Nov. 17, 1983)

Sex and Drugs Investigation

John Apperson (aide to Rep. Ronald Dellums)  (1983)

H. REP. NO. 98-559, 98th Cong., 1st Sess., at 56-63, 402-405, 410, 420-422 (1983)

Used cocaine

Preliminary Inquiry voted (March 15, 1983); Special Counsel investigated and found no basis for charges; Comm. took no further action Nov. 17, 1983)

Sex and Drugs Investigation

Preliminary Inquiry against a Legislative Assistant (1983)

H. REP. NO. 98-559, 98th Cong., 1st Sess., at 72 (1983)

Used cocaine

Preliminary Inquiry voted; Special Counsel investigated and found no basis for charges; Comm. took no further action (Nov. 17, 1983)

Sex and Drugs Investigation; name of employee not revealed due to dismissal of case

Investigation of Alleged Improper Alterations of House Documents (1983)

H. REP. NO. 98-544, 98th Cong., 1st Sess. (1983)

Unauthorized changes to text of hearing transcripts and other official documents (July 21 and 22, 1982)

Recommended corrected transcript be prepared; report filed (Nov. 14, 1983)

House directed Standards Comm. to investigate, 409-0 (June 30, 1983)

Comm. found one instance of improper alteration; one employee dismissed from House employment

Rep. George V. Hansen (ID) (1984)

H. REP. NO. 98-891, 98th Cong., 2d Sess. (1984)

Convicted of four counts of making false statements (failed to report nearly $334,000 in loans and profits from 1978-81)[18 U.S.C. § 1001] (Apr. 2, 1984)

Special Counsel appointed; Preliminary inquiry voted (April 4, 1984); found violation of R. 44 and SAV adopted, 10-0 (June 14, 1984); Reprimand recommended, 11-1 (June 20, 1984)

Reprimanded, 354-52 (July 31, 1984)

Conviction vacated, U.S. v. Hansen, 906 F. Supp. 688 (1995)

Rep. Geraldine A. Ferraro (NY) (1984)

H. REP. NO. 98-1169, 98th Cong., 2d Sess. (1984)

Inadequate and improper financial disclosure  (1978-83) [R. 44]

Complaint filed by outside organization (Aug. 7, 1984); Preliminary Inquiry voted (Sept. 12, 1984); found technical violations of R. 44; no sanction recommended, 12-2 (Dec. 3, 1984); report filed (Dec. 4, 1984)

Amended Financial Disclosure Statement; Comm. investigated leak of  report, findings not released

Investigation of Alleged Improper Political Solicitation (1985)

H. REP. NO. 99-277, 99th Cong., 1st Sess. (1985)

“Dear Colleague Letter”  advertising political fundraising event distributed to House offices(June 24, 1985)

Complaint filed by two Members (July 10, 1985); Preliminary Inquiry voted (July 17, 1985); violation of criminal statutes found but no sanction recommended [18 U.S.C. §§ 602, 607]; report approved and filed, 10-0 (Sept. 19, 1985)

Resolution directing Standards Comm. to investigate tabled, 233-170 (July 10, 1985)

Comm. determined no Member had knowledge of the contents of the letter or details of its distribution; report  admonished political organizations to be particularly mindful of federal law regarding such matters

Rep. Dan Daniel (VA) (1986)

H. REP. NO. 99-470, 99th Cong., 2d Sess. (1986)

Accepted free flights on corporate aircraft (1983-85) [House R. 43(4), R. 44, R. 45; 18 U.S.C. §§ 287, 641, 1001]

Preliminary Inquiry voted (Sept. 19, 1985); found violations of R. 43(4) and R. 44; no sanction recommended, report adopted and filed, 11-0 (Feb. 5, 1986)

Member made restitution and amended Financial Disclosure Statement

Rep. Mac Sweeney (TX) (1986)

H. REP. NO. 99-1019, 99th Cong., 2d Sess., at 7-8 (1986)

Used official resources for political purposes and congressional staff required to campaign as a condition of continued employment

Rep. Sweeney requested review by Comm. (July 22, 1986); violations found, no further action warranted, public letter to Rep. Sweeney (Sept. 11, 1986)

Comm. determined that campaign activities occurred in district office; no evidence Rep. Sweeney directed or condoned improper activities

Rep. James Weaver (OR) (1986)

H. REP. NO. 99-933, 99th Cong., 2d Sess. (1986)

Borrowed approximately $82,000 in campaign funds for personal use [R. 43(6)] and inadequate financial disclosure of commodity investment transactions [R. 44]

Preliminary Inquiry voted (Feb. 5, 1986); found violations of R. 43(6) and R. 44 found, recommended no sanction, report approved and filed, 12-0 (Sept. 30, 1986)

Comm. found no evidence of intent to avoid public disclosure

Rep. Fernand J. St. Germain (RI) (1987)

H. REP. NO. 100-46, 100th Cong., 1st Sess. (1987)

Accepted free flights on corporate aircraft [R. 43(4)], intervened on behalf of an organization in which he had a financial interest and inadequate financial disclosure [R. 44]

Outside Counsel appointed; Preliminary Inquiry voted (Feb. 5, 1986); found violations of R. 43(4), R. 43(6) and R. 44, recommended no sanction, report approved and filed (April 9, 1987)

Comm. admonished all Members to avoid situations in which even an inference might be drawn suggesting improper action

Rep. Mary Rose Oakar (OH) (1987)

H. REP. NO. 100-1125, 100th Cong. 2d Sess., at 6-7 (1989)

Purchased a townhouse with a member of her staff and improper salary disbursements to an employee

Informal staff review of press allegations; found improper payments but no fraudulent intent; recommended no sanction; letter released publicly (June 17, 1987)

Member made restitution for improper salary disbursements

Rep. Richard H. Stallings (ID) (1987)

H. REP. NO. 100-382, 100th Cong., 1st Sess. (1987)

Improper use of campaign funds (loan to cong. employee)

Preliminary Inquiry voted (Sept. 23, 1987), found violations of R 43(6),  adopted public letter of reproval, 12-0 (Oct. 15, 1987)

Comm. found campaign made improper loans to Rep. Stallings and his administrative assistant; violations mitigated by lack of improper intent

Rep. William H. Boner (TN) (1987)

Comm. Print (1987)

Violations of the gift rule, improper use of campaign funds, conflict of interest, and improper use of official resources

Preliminary Inquiry authorized (Feb. 5, 1986); deferred at DOJ request (April 23, 1986); staff report published (Dec. 14, 1987)

Resigned (Oct. 5, 1987); staff found violations of R. 43(1), R.  43(6),  R. 45, and COE ¶ 5

Rep. Austin J. Murphy (PA) (1987)

H. REP. NO. 100-485, 100th Cong., 1st Sess. (1987)

Improper use of official resources and violation of House rules regarding voting

Preliminary Inquiry voted (June 23, 1987); SAV adopted (Sept. 23, 1987); disciplinary hearing sustained four of six counts (Nov. 17, 1987); sanction hearing waived; recommended reprimand, 11-0 (Dec. 16, 1987)

Reprimanded, 324-68 (Dec. 18, 1987)

Comm. found: Rep. Murphy allowed another person to cast his House vote [R. 8(1)], permitted  former law firm access to official resources [31 U.S.C. § 1301(a)and COE ¶ 5] and  maintained employee on payroll who was not performing duties commensurate with pay [R. 43(8)]

Rep. Charles G. Rose, III (NC) (1988)

H. REP. NO. 100-526, 100th Cong., 2d Sess. (1988)

Borrowed campaign funds for personal use [R. 43(6)] and inadequate financial disclosure [R. 44]

Complaint filed by outside organization (Oct. 15, 1986); Preliminary Inquiry voted (June 17, 1987); SAV adopted (Oct. 28, 1987); oral argument (Dec. 16, 1987); sustained each SAV count (Feb. 18, 1988); Rep. Rose waived right to sanction hearing; adopted public letter of reproval, 9-3 (Mar. 23, 1988)

Comm. found personal use of campaign funds and improper financial disclosure; determined sanction mitigated by disclosure of loans on FEC reports, repayment of funds and amendment of Financial Disclosure Statement; paid $12,500 civil fine (1994)

Rep. Mario Biaggi (NY) (1988)

H. REP. NO. 100-506, 100th Cong., 2d Sess. (1988)

Convicted of accepting illegal gratuities, obstruction of justice and violation of the Travel Act (Sept. 22, 1987) (accepted  free vacations in exchange for using influence);

Preliminary Inquiry voted (Sept. 23, 1987); report finding violations adopted, 12-0 (Nov. 4, 1987); disciplinary hearing (Dec. 17, 1987);  recommended expulsion, 12-0 (Feb. 17, 1988)

House deferred action on expulsion resolution while Rep. Biaggi was on trial in second case

Resigned after additional conviction (Aug. 5, 1988) Comm. found violations of R. 43(1), R. 43(2), R. 43(4), R. 44 and COE ¶ 5

Del. Fofo I.F. Sunia (Am. Sam.) and Administrative Assistant Matthew K. Iuli (1988)

H. REP. NO. 100-1125, 100th Cong. 2d Sess., at 15-16 (1989)

Each pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to defraud the government (authorized salary disbursements of approximately $130,000 to ghost employees and used funds to pay personal and political expenses) [18 U.S.C. § 371] (Aug. 3, 1988)  

Preliminary Inquiry voted (Oct. 28, 1987); investigation deferred at DOJ request; Comm. determined actions violated conspiracy statute, brought discredit to the House,  and violated COE ¶ 5 [R. 43 (1) and R. 43 (8)] (Aug. 9, 1988)

Del. Sunia and Iuli resigned (Sept. 6, 1988) 

Rep. Patrick L. Swindall (GA) (1988)

H. REP. NO. 100-1125, 100th Cong., 2d Sess., at 17 (1989)

Indicted for perjury (Oct. 17, 1988)

Rep. Swindall requested investigation; Preliminary Inquiry voted

(June 23, 1988)

Defeated for reelection (Nov. 1988)

Rep. James C. Wright, Jr. (TX)(1989)

Comm. Print (April 13, 1989); H. REP. NO. 101-995, 101st Cong., 2nd Sess. at 3-6 (1990)

Preliminary Inquiry investigated: 1)Improper lobbying efforts on behalf of a constituent with whom Rep. Wright had an interest in a private gas well, 2) intervention in a matter before the Department of the Interior on behalf of Texas Oil and Gas Company, 3) improper use of campaign funds to pay for publication of a book for which Rep. Wright received a 55% royalty (Reflections of a Public Man), 4) improper use of government resources on the book, 5) improper use of a condominium in Fort Worth, TX (free and below=market housing from real estate developer George Mallick) and 6) exercise of undue influence with officials of the Federal Home Loan Bank Board on behalf of four Texas businessmen regarding the savings and loan crisis

Complaint filed by Member (May 26, 1988), Special Outside Counsel appointed; Preliminary Inquiry voted (June 9, 1988); report submitted by Special Outside Counsel (Feb. 21, 1989); SAV adopted, 12-0 (Apr. 13, 1989); report of Special Outside Counsel made public (April 17, 1989)

Rep. Wright announced intent to resign as Speaker  on House floor (May 31, 1989)

SAV charged: 1) Rep. Wright’s book was sold at speaking engagements to avoid honoraria limits [R. 43 (1), R. 47(1), 2 U.S.C. § 441i],

(2) Rep. Wright received impermissible gifts from spouse’s employer [R. 43(4)] and (3)  inadequate financial disclosure by Rep. Wright [R. 44];  resigned from House (June 30, 1989)

Rep. Jim Bates (CA) (1989)

H. REP. NO. 101-293, 101st Cong., 1st Sess. (1989)

Sexual harassment and improper campaign activity in congressional office

Complaints filed (Oct. 7, 1988); Preliminary Inquiry voted (Aug. 3, 1989); Rep. Bates waived rights to SAV and disciplinary hearing (Oct. 10, 1988); adopted public letter of reproval (Oct. 18, 1989)

Member admitted to violations

Rep. Robert Garcia (NY) (1990)

H. REP. NO. 101-995, 101st Cong., 2d Sess., at 12-13 (1990)

Rep. Garcia and wife convicted of conspiracy and Travel Act violations (receipt of $170,000 in payments, loan, and a diamond necklace from defense contractor) (Oct. 20, 1989) and acquitted of four counts of bribery and receipt of illegal gratuities

Preliminary Inquiry voted (Oct. 31, 1989); Rep. Garcia resigned (Jan. 7, 1990)

Conviction overturned, U.S. v. Garcia, 907 F.2d 380 (2^nd Cir. 1990); convicted after re-trial (1991); conviction overturned, U.S. v. Garcia, 992 F.2d 409 (1993)

Rep. Gus Savage IL) (1990)

H. REP. NO. 101-397, 101st Cong., 2d Sess. (1990)

Improper sexual advances toward a female Peace Corps volunteer (March 1989)

Complaints filed by two Members (July 20, 1989 and July 21, 1989); Preliminary Inquiry voted (Aug. 3, 1989); Rep. Savage apologized (Nov. 20, 1989); issued public report disapproving of conduct, 12-0 (Jan. 31, 1990)

Comm. found conduct violated R. 43(1)

Rep. Newt Gingrich (GA)(1990)

Comm. Print (Mar. 8, 1990); H. REP. NO. 101-995, 101st Cong., 2d Sess., at 6-8 (1990)

Book partnership used to avoid outside income limits or to obtain impermissible gifts or contributions [R. 43(4), R. 47], improper use of official resources to prepare book [R. 45] and inadequate financial disclosure [R. 44]

Complaint filed by Member (Apr. 24, 1989); amended complaint filed (July 14, 1989); second complaint filed (Oct. 25, 1989); Outside Counsel appointed; complaints dismissed and Comm. statement published, 11-0 (Mar. 8, 1990)

Member directed to amend Financial Disclosure Statements and to exercise better oversight regarding use of official stationery and frank

Rep. Barney Frank (MA) (1990)

H. REP. NO. 101-610, 101st Cong., 2d Sess. (1990)

1) Use of personal residence for prostitution by third parties, 2) improper contacts with probation office on behalf of  personal assistant, 3) improper dismissal of assistant’s parking tickets, and 4) sexual activity in the House gymnasium

Preliminary Inquiry voted (Sept. 12, 1989); Rep. Frank admitted preparing memo containing misleading statements that could be perceived as an attempt to use political influence in a judicial matter and arranged improper dismissal of parking tickets for personal assistant, both in violation of R. 43 (1); Comm. recommended reprimand and restitution of parking tickets, 12-0 (July 20, 1990)

Reprimanded, 408-18

(July 26, 1990)

Member paid restitution for tickets   

Rep. Donald E. “Buz” Lukens (OH)(1990)

Comm. Print (Oct. 24, 1990); H. REP. NO. 101-995, 101st Cong., 2d Sess., at 10-11 (1990)

Convicted of misdemeanor offense of contributing to the unruliness of a female minor (sex with an underage woman) (May 26, 1989); made improper sexual advances to Capitol elevator operator (Oct. 17, 1990)

Complaint filed (July 21, 1989); Preliminary Inquiry voted (Aug. 3, 1989); Preliminary Inquiry resolution amended to include assertion of additional charges (Oct. 22, 1990); staff report published (Oct. 24, 1990)

Resigned (Oct. 24, 1990)

House Bank (1991-1992)

H. REP. NO. 102-452, 102d Cong., 2d Sess. (1992)

General Accounting Office report concluded that numerous Members routinely overdrew bank accounts  (Sept. 18, 1991)

Subcommittee appointed, Comm. Chairman recused (Oct. 9, 1991); Subcommittee report adopted, 10-4 (March 5, 1992; report filed (March 10, 1002); disclosed list of 22 current and former Members who "abused" their banking privileges (April 1, 1992); disclosed names of all Members who wrote overdrafts on  accounts but were not considered to have abused privileges (Apr. 16, 1992)

Authorized Standards Comm. to investigate, 390-8 (Oct. 3, 1991); ordered House Bank closed (Dec. 31, 1991);  directed Standards Comm. to disclose  names of abusers, 391-36 (March 12, 1992); directed Standards Comm. to disclose number of account overdrafts for each Member during period July 1, 1988- Oct. 3, 1991, 426-0 (March 13, 1992)

Three Members and one delegate convicted after leaving House of charges related to House Bank: Rep. Albert Bustamante (TX)(1993), Rep. Carl Christopher Perkins (KY)(1994), Del. Walter Fauntroy (DC)(1995), and Rep. Mary Rose Oakar (OH)(1997)

House Post Office (1992-1994)

H. REP. NO. 103-873, 103rd Cong., 2d Sess., at 7-8 (1994)

Investigation by U.S. Attorney for D.C. into allegations that clerks stole money from the House Post Office and distributed narcotics (1991); further investigation of Members trading stamps for cash (1992-1994)

Report filed by Comm. on House Administration (H. REP. NO. 102-713, July 24, 1992); Standards Comm. established Task Force to review investigative records received from Comm. on House Administration; Standards Comm. deferred investigation at DOJ request (1992-1994)

Directed Comm. on House Administration to investigate, 254-160 (Feb. 5, 1992); directed Admin. Comm. to transmit records to Standards Comm., 414-0 (July 22, 1992); supported  decision by the  Standards Comm. to defer, 241-184 (Mar. 2, 1994)

Former House Postmaster pleaded guilty to misdemeanor conspiracy to embezzle and aiding and abetting embezzlement (July 19, 1993); former Rep. Joseph Kolter (PA) convicted of charges related to Post Office (1996); seven former House employees convicted of charges related to Post Office 

Rep. Newt Gingrich (GA)(1994-1997)

H. REP. NO. 104-401, 104th Cong., 1st Sess. (1995); H. REP. NO. 104-886, 104th Cong., 2d Sess., at 9-11, 104th Cong., 2nd Sess. (1997); H. REP. NO. 105-1, 105th Cong., 1st Sess.(1997)

Complaint alleged improper use of official resources in preparation of a college course [R. 45], conflict of interest, and improper use of tax-exempt entities in support of college course (Sept. 12, 1994); investigation expanded to include allegations that: 1)Rep. Gingrich made false statements to Comm. on Standards, 2) his relationship with  foundation/course violated foundation’s tax-exempt status under Section 501(c)3 of the IRS Code, 3) Rep. Gingrich used unofficial resources for official purposes [R. 45], and 4) Rep. Gingrich’s activities and relationship with another foundation (Sept. 26, 1995)

Complaint filed by former Rep. Ben Jones (GA) (Sept. 12, 1994)(“First Jones Complaint”); Standards Comm. investigated and dismissed first two allegations (Rep. Gingrich made restitution to pay for the use of the official resources); initiated a Preliminary Inquiry regarding the third allegation and hired a Special Counsel (Dec. 6, 1995); interim report  (Sept. 26, 1996); three count SAV adopted (Dec. 13, 1996); Rep. Gingrich admitted to amended one-count SAV and sanction recommendation (Dec. 21, 1996); recommended reprimand and reimbursement of $300,000 to House for investigative expenses, 7-1; report filed (Jan. 17, 1997)(acting as Select Comm. on Ethics)

Reprimanded and directed to reimburse $300,000, 395-28 (Jan. 21, 1997) 

Speaker admitted responsibility (but not intent) for two materially misleading statements to Standards Comm. and failure to seek and follow legal advice   (failure to take appropriate steps to ensure workshop and college course were in compliance with Internal Revenue Code), all in violation of R. 43(1)

Rep. Dan Rostenkowski (IL)(1994)

H. REP. NO. 103-873, 103rd Cong., 2d Sess., at 8 (1994)

Indicted for mail fraud, wire fraud, witness tampering, concealing a material fact, false statements, embezzlement, and conspiracy (May 31, 1994); complaint alleged conduct charged in the indictment violated R.  43(1), R. 43(3) and R. 43(8)

Member complaint filed (June 30, 1994); Comm. deferred action at request of U.S. Attorney (Aug. 17, 1994) 

Defeated for reelection (Nov. 1994)

Rep. Martin Frost (TX) (1994)

Public letter (Nov. 29, 1994)

Used congressional staff for redistricting work [R. 45]; campaign contributions by congressional staff (18 U.S.C. § 603)

Complaint filed by outside organization (Sept. 2, 1994); complaint dismissed; public letter released (Nov. 29, 1994)

Comm. found technical violation of campaign regulations; Rep. Frost agreed to appropriate reimbursement

Rep. Newt Gingrich (GA) (1995)

H. REP. NO. 104-886, 104th Cong., 2nd Sess., at 11-13 (1997)

Re-alleged charges in “First Jones Complaint” and added charges:  improper receipt of book royalties for To Renew America, improper book auction, conflict of interest, improper solicitation, improper use of official resources, and improper intervention with federal authorities [R. 43(1), R. 45]  

Complaint by Member (for former Rep. Jones) (Jan. 26, 1995)(“Second Jones Complaint”); complaint dismissed (Dec. 6, 1995); Comm. recommended changes regarding book contracts (Dec. 12, 1995)

Adopted Comm. resolution (restricting advances from book contracts but not subjecting royalty income to outside earned income limit), 259-128 (Dec. 22, 1995)

Comm. concluded Rep. Gingrich did not violate R. 47 but strongly questioned “the appropriateness of what some could describe as an attempt…to capitalize on his office.”

Rep. Newt Gingrich (GA)(1995)

H. REP. NO. 104-886, 104th Cong., 2nd Sess., at 13 (1997)

Improperly used services of volunteer for official purposes [R. 45]

Member complaint filed (Feb. 13, 1995)(“First Miller Complaint”); Comm. investigated; found violation of R. 45 and sent public letter to Rep. Gingrich but took no further action (Dec. 6, 1995); published report (Dec. 12, 1995)

Comm. concluded use of services of volunteer to assemble leadership staff violated rules and the volunteer’s routine presence in Rep. Gingrich’s official office created the appearance of improper commingling of political and official resources

Rep. Newt Gingrich (GA) (1995)

H. REP. NO. 104-886, 104th Cong., 2nd Sess., at 14 (1997)

Accepted free cable television coverage of college lectures [R. 43(4), R. 47] [5 U.S.C. § 7353](improper gifts/solicitation)

Member complaint filed (Feb. 23, 1995) (“Schroeder, Johnston and McKinney Complaint”); Comm. investigated; complaint dismissed in public letter (Dec. 6, 1995); public report (Dec. 12, 1995)

Rep. Newt Gingrich (GA) (1995)

H. REP. NO. 104-886, 104th Cong., 2nd Sess., at 14-15 (1997)

Improper statements on House floor for political reasons; official resources used for political purposes [R. 45]

Two Member complaints filed (Mar. 8, 1995) and (May 15, 1995)(“Bonior Complaints”); Comm. investigated; complaints dismissed in public letter (Dec. 6, 1995); public report (Dec. 12, 1995)

Comm. found twelve special orders speeches violated House Rules (use of the official resources of the House floor for political purposes);  giving out 1-800 number improper (no sanction due to misuse by other Members); advised House that it intended to enforce violations in the future

Rep. Newt Gingrich (GA) (1995-1998)

H. REP. NO. 104-886, 104th Cong., 2d Sess., 16-18 (1997); H. REP. NO. 105-848, 105th Cong., 2nd Sess., at 14-16 (1999)

Complaint alleged violation of laws governing tax-exempt organizations, improper intervention with government agencies,  receipt of improper personal benefits from a PAC and violation of campaign finance rules 

Member complaint filed attempting to amend second Jones complaint (Dec. 14, 1995); Comm. notified Members that complaint had to be re-filed (Jan. 25, 1996); new Member complaint filed (Jan. 31, 1996) (“Bonior, DeLauro, Lewis, Miller & Schroeder Complaint”); Comm. referred first allegation to Investigative Subcommittee handling “First Jones Complaint” (Aug. 1, 1996); dismissed second allegation (Sept. 26, 1996); dismissed remaining allegations, letter released publicly (Oct. 10, 1998)

Comm. found repeated technical violations of R. 45 (took no further action as the violations occurred during 1990-91 and no evidence of continuing violations); Comm. deferred to findings by court in PAC-related issues, see FEC v. GOPAC, 917 F. Supp. 851 (1996)

Rep. Richard Armey (TX) (1995)

H. REP. NO. 104-886, 104th Cong., 2nd Sess., at 19 (1997)

Improper use of congressional stationery [R. 43(11)]

Member filed complaint on behalf of an outside organization (June 2, 1995); Rep. Armey admitted violation; complaint dismissed (June 13, 1995); public letter to Rep. Armey and press statement (June 14, 1995)

Majority Leader; Comm. strongly recommended Member take necessary steps to insure familiarity with House Rules; Comm. re-issued guidelines concerning the use of stationery

Rep. Mel Reynolds (IL)(1995)

H. REP. NO. 104-886, 104th Cong., 2nd Sess., at 19 (1997)

Misuse of congressional staff for personal purposes, misuse of official resources, failure to repay personal debts and obstruction of justice; convicted in state court of criminal sexual assault, aggravated sexual abuse, solicitation of child pornography and obstruction of justice  (Aug. 22, 1995);

Preliminary Inquiry voted (June 28, 1995)

Resigned (Sept. 1, 1995)

Rep. Charles Wilson (TX)(1995)

H. REP. NO. 104-886, 104th Cong., 2d Sess., at 19-20 (1997)

Improper use of campaign funds and inadequate financial disclosure [R. 43(6) and R. 44]

FEC transmitted information to the Comm. on Standards developed during an investigation (Aug. 28, 1995); Rep. Wilson admitted error; complaint dismissed and letter released publicly (Dec. 7, 1995)

Campaign paid $90,000 FEC fine; Comm. “admonished Representative Wilson to take all action necessary to ensure that he and his staff adhere to the Rules of the House”

Rep. Walter Tucker (CA)(1995)

141 CONG. REC. 36162 (1995)

Convicted on seven counts of extortion and two counts of tax evasion [18 U.S.C. § 1951; 26 U.S.C § 7206(1)](extorted $30,000 from a local businessman while he was mayor of Compton, CA and failed to report payments on his taxes)[Dec. 8, 1995)

Expulsion resolution filed (Dec. 12, 1995)

Announced resignation on Dec. 12, 1995  (effective Dec. 15, 1995)

Rep. David McIntosh (IN) (1996)

H. REP. NO. 104-886, 104th Cong., 2d Sess., at 20-21 (1997)

Allowed a document that improperly used  facsimile of an outside organization’s letterhead (distributed at a committee meeting and displayed on House floor) and improper questioning of a witness by a Congressional employee (questioned regarding observance of a religious holiday)  

Member complaints filed on behalf of outside organizations (Oct. 27, 1995 and Dec. 5, 1995); complaints dismissed; letter to Rep. McIntosh (March 14, 1996); Committee voted not to make letter public, 5-4 (March 20, 1996)

Member apologized and formalized a written policy for his staff regarding harassing, insensitive or discriminatory behavior

Rep. Newt Gingrich (GA) (1996)

H. REP. NO. 104-886, 104th Cong., 2nd Sess., at 16 (1997)

Improperly used services of volunteer in congressional offices [R. 45]

Complaint filed by Member on behalf of outside organization (Nov. 15, 1995) (“Second Miller Complaint”); complaint dismissed; public letter released (March 29, 1996)

Comm. concluded that the volunteer service, which had terminated by the time of the complaint, did not comply with the applicable guidelines

Rep. Robert Torricelli (NJ) (1996)

H. REP. NO. 104-886, 104th Cong., 2nd Sess., at 22 (1997)

Used congressional fax machine to send a press release having a political purpose [R. 43(1)-(2), Committee on House Oversight rules and 31 U.S.C. § 1301(a)]

Complaint filed by a Member (Dec. 21, 1995); complaint dismissed; public letter released (Mar. 29, 1996)

Comm. determined use of the fax machine violated applicable rules on use of official resources; Member reimbursed use of the fax

Rep. Dick Zimmer (NJ) (1996)

H. REP. NO. 104-886, 104th Cong., 2nd Sess., at 22-23 (1997)

Used congressional fax machine for non-official purpose [R. 45]

Complaint filed by a Member (Dec. 21, 1995); complaint returned (Jan. 5, 1996); complaint re-submitted (Jan. 19, 1996); complaint dismissed (March 29, 1996)

Rep. David Bonior (MI) (1996)

H. REP. NO. 104-886, 104th Cong., 2d Sess., at 24 (1997)

First complaint alleged improper use of congressional employees with regard to book published by Rep. Bonior in 1984; second complaint alleged improper salary payments to member of staff prior to her marriage to Rep. Bonior 

Complaint filed by outside organization (March 6, 1996); complaint returned (May 9, 1996)(violations occurred before the third previous Congress); second complaint filed by outside organization (March 20, 1996); second complaint dismissed (May 8, 1996)

Minority Whip 

Rep. Gerald Solomon (NY) (1996)

H. REP. NO. 104-886, 104th Cong., 2nd Sess., at 24-25 (1997)

Press release and letter sent to N.Y. state assemblyman included language that implied possible retaliation for political disagreement [R. 45]

Letter submitted by New York State assemblyman and seven colleagues (April 7, 1996); Rep. Solomon indicated he had not retaliated and had never intended to retaliate; complaint dismissed; public letter released (May 8, 1996)

Letter advised Member to avoid appearance of impropriety and be judicious in the language used on official letterhead

Rep. Jim McDermott (WA)(1996)

H. REP. NO. 104-886, 104th Cong., 2d Sess., at 25 (1997)

Complaint alleged conflict of interest (participated in Comm.  deliberations involving complaints filed with the substantial assistance of a person affiliated with his political action committee) and violation of Comm. confidentiality rules

Complaint filed by Member (July 17, 1996); dismissed complaint; public letter released (July 24, 1996)

Ranking Minority Member of Standards Comm. (recused from Comm. proceedings on this matter); letter cautioned Comm. members on public statements regarding Comm. matters

Rep. Newt Gingrich (GA) (1996)

H. REP. NO. 104-886, 104th Cong., 2d Sess., at 16 (1997)

Improperly used services of volunteer in congressional office [R. 45]

Member complaint filed on behalf of outside organization (Apr. 22, 1996) (“Third Miller Complaint”); complaint dismissed; public letter released (Sept. 19, 1996)

Member directed to take immediate steps to prevent the reoccurrence of similar incidents and insure compliance with applicable standards and to guard against even the appearance of impropriety

Rep. Richard Gephardt (MO) (1996)

H. REP. NO. 104-886, 104th Cong., 2d Sess., at 23-24 (1997)

Complaint alleged inadequate financial disclosure (series of land sales and financial agreements regarding property purchased and exchanged in North Carolina )[R. 44], Internal Revenue Code violations [section 1031 of the I.R.S. Code] and violated campaign finance rule [R. 43(6)]

Complaint filed by Member (Feb. 2, 1996); additional information obtained from Rep. Gephardt; Rep. Gephardt amended 1991 and 1992 Financial Disclosure Statements (Sept. 27, 1996); complaint dismissed; public letter released (Sept. 28, 1996)

Minority Leader; letter noted that F.D. amendments were filed more than three years after the original form was filed, amendments reflected gross rental income in the range of $25,000 to $50,000 and resolution of the matter had been delayed pending documentation from  Rep. Gephardt’s attorney

Rep. Barbara-Rose Collins (MI) (1996)

H. REP. NO. 104-876, 104TH Cong., 2d Sess. (1997)

Misused official resources, misused campaign resources and misused scholarship funds

Preliminary Inquiry voted (Dec. 5, 1995); 11-count SAV adopted (Sept. 12, 1996); Subcommittee recommended that no further action be taken due to pending loss of jurisdiction (Oct. 25, 1996; Comm. took no further action and filed report (Jan. 2, 1997)

Defeated in primary  (Aug. 6, 1996); SAV charged improper use of official resources, improper use of campaign funds, misuse of a scholarship fund, improper unofficial account, improper raise to congressional employees, and improper solicitation of campaign contributions

Rep. Tom DeLay (TX)(1997)

H. REP. NO. 105-848, 105th Cong., 2d Sess., at 9-10 (1999)

Improperly linked campaign contributions to official actions and improper political favors for Rep. DeLay’s brother, a registered lobbyist

Complaint filed by outside organization (Sept. 5, 1996); complaint dismissed; private letter sent to Rep. DeLay; press statement released (Nov. 7, 1997)

Press statement noted that Comm. advised Member to not create the impression that he would consider an individual’s request for access or for official action based on campaign contributions

Rep. Jay Kim (CA)(1998)

H. REP. NO. 105-797, 105th Cong., 2d Sess. (1998)

Pleaded guilty in federal court to three misdemeanor campaign finance law violations (knowingly accepted illegal corporate and foreign contributions) (Aug. 11, 1997)

Comm. deemed information received from Justice Dept. constituted complaint; Investigative Subcommittee established (Dec. 17, 1997); Subcommittee adopted six- count SAV and recommended no further action due to impending loss of jurisdiction (Oct. 2, 1998); Comm. unanimously adopted recommendation (Oct. 6, 1998)

Defeated in primary (June 1998); SAV charged additional counts involving false statements, improper gifts, improper financial disclosure, and attempt to improperly influence a witness; Rep. Kim also pleaded guilty on behalf of campaign to five felony violations of campaign finance laws (Aug. 11, 1997)

Rep. E.G. “Bud” Shuster (PA)(1996-2000)

H. REP. NO. 106-979, 106th Cong., 2d Sess. (2000)

Relationship with lobbyist (former chief of staff) and intervention with federal agencies on behalf of constituent

Complaint filed by outside organization (Sept. 5,  1996); Investigative Subcommittee established (Nov. 14, 1997); investigation partially deferred at DOJ request (June 10- Dec. 4, 1998); SAV adopted and Rep. Shuster admitted to SAV (July 26, 2000); letter of reproval citing “serious official misconduct” unanimously adopted (Oct. 4, 2000)

Rep. Shuster admitted to one count SAV listing five areas of misconduct in violation of R. 43(1): relationship with former chief of staff, House gift rule, improper use of official resources,  improper campaign work by congressional employees, and appearance that  campaign expenditures may not have been attributable to bona fide campaign or political purposes

Rep. Corrine Brown (FL)(2000)

H. REP. NO. 106-1044, 106th Cong., 2d Sess., at 11-12 (2001) 

Lodging for Member provided at premises owned or controlled by an imprisoned foreign national and gift of an  automobile to Rep. Brown’s adult daughter (1997)

Investigative Subcommittee established (June 9, 1999); Subcommittee recommended no further action, Comm. accepted  recommendation (Sept. 20, 2000); press statement released (Sept. 21, 2000)

Comm. noted that actions demonstrated poor judgment and “created substantial concerns regarding... appearance of impropriety and the reputation of the House”

Rep. Earl Hilliard (AL) (2001)

H. REP. No. 107-130, 107th Cong., 1st. Sess. (2001)

Improper loans made by campaign committee, improper campaign expenditures, and improper financial disclosure

Investigative Subcommittee established (Sept. 22, 1999); SAV adopted (April 4, 2001); Rep. Hilliard admitted to SAV (Apr. 5, 2001); letter of reproval citing “serious official misconduct” unanimously adopted (June 20, 2001)

Defeated in primary (June 2002); Rep. Hilliard admitted pattern and practice of violating R. 43(6) (improper campaign loans, improper use of campaign funds, personal use of campaign funds)

Rep. Steve Buyer (IN)(2001)

Press Statement (Aug. 1, 2001)

Improper use of official resources for political purpose

Member complaint filed (July 16, 2001); complaint dismissed unanimously and public letter sent to Rep. Buyer (Aug. 1, 2001)

Rep. James A. Traficant, Jr. OH)(2002)

H. REP. NO. 107-594, 107th Cong., 2d Sess. (2002)

Convicted of conspiracy to violate federal bribery and gratuity statutes, receipt of illegal gratuity, obstruction of justice, defrauding the government, racketeering, and tax evasion (April 11, 2002)

Investigative Subcommittee established (April 17, 2002); 10-count SAV adopted (May 22, 2002); adjudicatory hearing (July 15-17, 2002); sustained 9 counts (violations of R. 43(1), R. 43(2), R. 43(3) and COE ¶ 2); unanimously recommended expulsion (July 18, 2002)

Expelled, 420-1 (July 24, 2002)

Investigation into Voting on Medicare Prescription Drug Act of 2003 (2004)

H. REP. NO. 108-722, 108th Cong., 2nd Sess. (2004)

Member received communications linking support for the congressional candidacy of his son with his vote on the Medicare bill (Nov. 23, 2003)

Investigative Subcommittee established (Mar. 17, 2004); Subcommittee unanimously adopted report (Sept. 29, 2004); Comm. unanimously adopted Subcommittee report (Sept. 30, 2004); report referred to House (Oct. 4, 2004)

Report admonished Rep. Tom DeLay (TX) (improperly linked personal interest of a Member with effort achieve a legislative goal); Rep. Candice Miller (MI) (threatened to retaliate against a Member for vote); and Rep. Nick Smith (MI) (public statements risked impugning  reputation of the House and failed to cooperate with Comm. investigation)

Rep. Tom DeLay (TX)(2004)

Public Statement (Oct. 6, 2004)

Solicitation and receipt of campaign contributions in return for legislative assistance, use of corporate political contributions in violation of state law, and improper use of official resources for political purposes

Member complaint filed (June 15, 2004); Comm. unanimously adopted recommendations of Chairman and Ranking Minority Member (first and third allegations resolved by public letter and second allegation deferred due to state grand jury investigation) (Oct 6, 2004)

Majority Leader; admonished for participation in and facilitation of an energy company fundraiser (created an appearance that donors were being provided special access) and intervention in a partisan conflict using the resources of a federal agency