DALLAS (Diya TV) — A campaign-funded merchandise website associated with Rep. Jasmine Crockett advertised consulting services, including government relations and lobbying, before removing the listings following questions from Zeteo, the outlet reported Friday.
Crockett’s office said the Texas Democrat did not build the website or authorize the consulting button.
The site for “The Clapback Collection” included a button labeled “Political Consultant- Book Now.” It directed visitors to options for campaign strategy, communications, lobbying, digital media and political risk management.
Zeteo reported that the solicitation appeared by May and disappeared after the outlet contacted Crockett’s office.
A spokesperson told Zeteo that the site had always focused on campaign merchandise and that Crockett had promoted it only for that purpose.
“She never directed anyone to add the button you are inquiring about,” the spokesperson said.
The listing raises questions about the separation of campaign operations and private business activity. House rules require lawmakers to keep campaign money separate from personal funds and prohibit converting campaign resources to personal use. They also generally prohibit using campaign funds to compensate people for performing official congressional duties.
Separate restrictions govern outside employment. The House Ethics Committee says members may not use their official positions for personal gain or represent others before the federal government. Members also face limits on outside earned income and certain types of paid work.
The website listing alone does not establish that Crockett performed lobbying work or received payment. The publicly accessible portion of Zeteo’s report does not identify clients or completed transactions.
