House Republicans demand an investigation into Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky’s Pennsylvania visit for potential Hatch Act violations.
At a Glance
- House Republicans call for an investigation into Zelensky’s use of U.S. resources during his Pennsylvania visit.
- Concerns include potential violations of the Hatch Act and use of taxpayer dollars for political purposes.
- Criticism arose from Zelensky’s comments about Vice Presidential candidate Sen. JD Vance and former President Donald Trump.
- The investigation aims to uncover if the visit was politically motivated to support Democratic candidates.
House Republicans Question Zelensky’s Trip to Pennsylvania
House Republicans, led by Rep. Lance Gooden, are pushing for a thorough investigation into Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky’s recent visit to Pennsylvania, alleging inappropriate use of U.S. taxpayer resources and potential violations of the Hatch Act. The act prohibits federal employees from engaging in political activities while on duty. During his visit, Zelensky traveled in a U.S. Air Force plane and received Secret Service protection.
In Pennsylvania, Zelensky criticized Senator JD Vance (R-Ohio), which GOP congressional members viewed as a political move. Nine GOP members argued that the comments were unwarranted and accused Zelensky of political bias. The House Republicans contend that Zelensky’s visit and his remarks could be seen as electoral interference and improper use of federal resources.
Zelensky's visit to Pennsylvania felt more like a campaign stunt than a diplomatic mission.
I am calling for an investigation into whether tax dollars were used for political gain.
It would not just be unethical; it would be a violation of federal law!https://t.co/Jeb8CJOOgv
— Lance Gooden (@Lancegooden) September 24, 2024
Zelensky’s Visit Raises Ethical Concerns
Zelensky’s trip to the U.S. coincided with his appearance at the United Nations General Assembly. In a New Yorker interview during his stay, Zelensky called Vance “too radical” and questioned former President Donald Trump’s ability to end the war in Ukraine. Such remarks have fueled accusations from Republicans, like Sen. Eric Schmitt (Mo.) and Sean Parnell, suggesting Zelensky’s actions were a form of foreign election interference.
“Zelensky is openly campaigning for Democrats in battleground Pennsylvania today some 50 days out from our Presidential election. Unreal,” commented Eric Schmitt on social media.
House Republicans are particularly concerned about the timing and nature of Zelensky’s visit. They highlight that only Democratic lawmakers in Pennsylvania were present, raising suspicion of potential coordination with Democratic political campaigns. Zelensky’s tour included the Scranton Army Ammunition Plant, a critical site for producing artillery rounds for Ukraine’s war efforts against Russia.
House Republicans Are Investigating Zelensky's Visit to Pennsylvania
https://t.co/8DKLG1zKZ9— Townhall.com (@townhallcom) September 25, 2024
Calls for Transparency and Accountability
Rep. Lance Gooden and eight other House Republicans signed a letter demanding full disclosure from the Justice and Defense departments. They requested details on the funding and intentions behind Zelensky’s visit, emphasizing the need to determine whether the trip was designed to politically benefit Democratic candidates. Gooden stated, “Using American taxpayer dollars to fund what was clearly a campaign-style event for the Democrats is unacceptable and likely illegal.”
Notable among the allegations is Zelensky’s participation in what some Republicans claim was a “stump speech” for Vice President Kamala Harris, pointing to comments suggesting a Trump-Vance administration could lead to “global conflict.” The GOP insists on a thorough investigation to uphold ethical guidelines and U.S. federal law, ensuring that taxpayer funds are used appropriately, focusing on national security and not electoral influences.
