Rep. Crockett’s Car Lease Sparks Controversy
Representative Jasmine Crockett (D., Texas) is under fire following revelations that she uses taxpayer money for a vehicle lease, despite her earlier comments questioning government spending on individual citizens. The Washington Free Beacon reported that Crockett has billed the public $999.96 each month since taking office in January 2023 for a “vehicle lease,” raising questions about her financial priorities.
It’s not publicly known what type of vehicle Crockett leases, as representatives aren’t mandated to disclose this information. However, $999.96 per month is enough to cover the lease of a Tesla Model S, indicating a luxury vehicle. Critics argue this contrasts with Crockett’s February statement, where she said the government is “not in the business of giving out money” to individual taxpayers.
The Vehicle Lease Program
Crockett’s vehicle is obtained through a little-known program that enables members of Congress to use public funds for leasing vehicles for use in their districts. While the program sees participation from both parties, the specifics of usage have raised concerns.
In 2024, approximately 42 lawmakers participated, including 15 Republicans. Many Republicans, representing large districts, used the funds to lease economy vehicles from American manufacturers. They claim it helps them travel their expansive districts more cost-effectively than using personal vehicles and getting the standard IRS reimbursement rate, or using airfare.
However, the spending patterns of some Democrats have drawn criticism. Several have used taxpayer funds to lease vehicles from luxury brands like Tesla, Lexus, and Volvo. Fifteen of these Democrats, including Crockett, represent relatively small urban districts. For example, Crockett’s district in Dallas covers only 335 square miles.
Financial Disclosures
Beyond the vehicle lease, Crockett expensed other everyday living costs to taxpayers. House disbursement records show she billed $20,301 in 2024 for “lodging” and an additional $2,670 for meals during congressional sessions.
This reliance on public funds for basic necessities is expected to draw further scrutiny as her party aims to make her a prominent figure.
Ethical Concerns
Caitlin Sutherland, the executive director of Americans for Public Trust, an ethics watchdog, found it “disturbing” that lawmakers don’t disclose details about their leases. Sutherland said that it “raises ethical questions and is unacceptable, particularly in our current era of rising accountability over government spending.”
Historically, there have been abuses of the vehicle lease program. In 2010, former Rep. John Conyers (D., Mich.) faced criticism when his son was found driving his taxpayer-funded Cadillac Escalade Hybrid. He subsequently reimbursed the Treasury.
Other Democrats Involved
Other Democratic representatives also used taxpayer funds for vehicle leases, with several districts being notably small. Rep. LaMonica McIver (D., N.J.), whose district spans only 77.5 square miles, billed taxpayers $11,996 for her Lexus payments. Other representatives mentioned include David Scott (D., Ga.), Jonathan Jackson (D., Ill.), and Andre Carson (D., Ind.), who secured a Tesla with public funds. Rep. Yvette Clarke (D., N.Y.), chairwoman of the Congressional Black Caucus, whose Brooklyn district is just 15.2 square miles, expensed $10,400 in vehicle lease payments.
Rep. James Clyburn (D., S.C.) is one of the few Democrats in the program who represents a rural district, yet still opted for a leased vehicle from Volvo.
A few representatives responded to the Free Beacon’s requests for comment. Rep. Norma Torres (D., Calif.) leased a Toyota Prius, and Rep. Patrick Ryan’s (D., N.Y.) vehicle lease was for the van used for his mobile constituent services office. Rep. Hank Johnson (D., Ga.) leased a GMC Terrain for district event transport. Rep. Troy Nehls (R., Texas) was the only Republican known to lease from a luxury brand, although his office declined to identify the vehicle. His office stated that they believed it’s a good use of taxpayer funds, and that they abide by House rules.
