RELEASE: Rep. Cloud’s Call for Probe into U.S. Resources for Zelensky’s Visit Leads to Oversight Investigation

WASHINGTON — Congressman Michael Cloud (TX-27) has joined fellow House Republicans in demanding a thorough investigation into Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky’s recent visit to the United States, raising concerns over the apparent misuse of U.S. taxpayer resources for political purposes. The inquiry follows questions surrounding Zelensky’s Pennsylvania visit, which coincided with remarks perceived to boost Vice President Kamala Harris ahead of the upcoming U.S. presidential election. Following this letter being sent, House Oversight Committee Chairman, James Commer (KY-01) announced that the Committee would be opening an official investigation into the visit.

A letter signed by nine Republican members of Congress, led by fellow Texan Congressman Lance Gooden (TX-05), was submitted to the Departments of Justice and Defense, questioning the use of U.S. military aircraft and Secret Service protection during Zelensky’s visit. The letter expresses concerns that these resources may have been employed for politically motivated activities, possibly violating federal laws such as the Hatch Act, which prohibits the use of government resources for political purposes.

Rep. Cloud released the following statement:

“Democrats impeached President Trump over a phone call with Ukraine, yet the Biden-Harris administration is using taxpayer dollars to fly Zelensky to swing states and essentially campaign for Vice President Harris. That cannot stand. I’ve joined fellow members of Congress in demanding a full accounting of the military aircraft, Secret Service resources, and other taxpayer funds used for this visit. The American people deserve transparency and answers on how this aligns with U.S. national interests—especially as families across the country are struggling.”

The House Oversight Committee has now requested documents from the White House, Department of Defense, and Department of Justice. The resources deployed for Zelensky’s visit, including a U.S. military aircraft and security detail, may have been used to support a politically significant visit ahead of the 2024 presidential election, violating ethical guidelines.

Chairman James Comer (R-KY) emphasized the gravity of the situation, stating:

“If the Biden-Harris Administration attempted to use a foreign leader to benefit the Vice President’s presidential campaign, this is an abuse of power and misuse of taxpayer dollars.”