Expands probe on Fat GOP Rep...

Ethics committee expands Rep. Farenthold probe

By JOHN BRESNAHAN

The House Ethics Committee announced late Thursday that it was expanding its investigation into GOP Rep. Blake Farenthold to include allegations he improperly used official resources for campaign activities, as well as lying to the panel.

Farenthold is already under investigation over claims that he sexually harassed at least one former staffer.

Thursday’s announcement, however, means the stakes have gone up dramatically for the Texas Republican, as misuse of official resources is a potential violation of both House rules and federal law.

Farenthold has already announced he will retire due to the scandal surrounding the harassment allegations. A former aide, Lauren Greene, received an $84,000 in taxpayer funds as part of a secret settlement after she sued Farenthold in December 2014 for gender discrimination, sexual harassment and creating a hostile work environment. The Ethics Committee has sought to interview Greene, although it is unclear if that meeting has taken place yet.

Farenthold’s office did not respond to a request for comment.

The Ethics panel also announced that it was formally appointing an investigative subcommittee to look into sexual-harassment allegations against Democratic Rep. Ruben Kihuen of Nevada.

A former campaign aide and a Nevada-based lobbyist have claimed Kihuen repeatedly harassed them and made unwanted sexual advances. Kihuen — who has also announced that he will not seek reelection — has denied the charges and hired a Washington, D.C., attorney to represent him.

“As I’ve said before, I will fully participate and cooperate with the Ethics Committee investigation,” Kihuen said in a statement. “This process is an important part of making sure everyone has their voice heard.”