Congressman JOE Morelle Introduces Legislation to Crack DOWN on Government Corruption

Image May 14, 2026 Press Release Joins Ranking Members Jamie Raskin and Robert Garcia to strengthen oversight, increase transparency, and hold public officials accountable May 14, 2026 (Washington, D.C.)—Today, Congressman Joe Morelle joined Congressmen Jamie Raskin (D, MD-08) and Robert Garcia (D, CA-42) in introducing the Protecting Our Democracy Act , legislation designed to strengthen oversight, crack down on corruption in government, and ensure public officials are accountable to the American people—not their own political or financial interests. “Corruption in government doesn’t start all at once—it grows when leaders believe the rules don’t apply to them,” said Congressman Joe Morelle. “I’m proud to join Ranking Member Raskin and Ranking Member Garcia in introducing the Protecting Our Democracy Act to restore accountability, strengthen oversight, and ensure no president is above the law. At a moment when Donald Trump and his allies continue to test the limits of our democracy for their own political gain, Democrats are fighting to protect the checks and balances that safeguard the American people.” “President Trump and his cabinet are committing daily shocking violations of the Constitution, putting billions of dollars in personal profit, rampant political corruption and the designs of billionaire oligarchs before the basic needs of the American people,” said Rep. Raskin. “I’m introducing the Protecting Our Democracy Act with Representatives Garcia and Morelle to reassert the rule of law, revive congressional power and get our democracy back on the growth track.” “The blatant corruption we've seen from Donald Trump and the Trump Administration is exactly what this bill is going to crack down on," said Rep. Garcia. “This bill will close glaring loopholes and makes it clear that no president can run a pay-to-play scheme from the Oval Office. No one should be able to buy a pardon, a cabinet seat, or favor from the President of the United States, and this bill will make sure it can't happen.” Specifically, the Protecting our Democracy Act would: Prevent presidents and other public officials from profiting off their office or accepting improper payments from foreign governments; Strengthen oversight and transparency in the Executive Branch while protecting whistleblowers who expose wrongdoing; Increase transparency in elections and strengthen safeguards against foreign interference in American campaigns; Ban “pay-to-play” schemes that allow political favors, pardons, or appointments to be exchanged for money or gifts. During his time in office, President Trump and members of his administration have repeatedly blurred the lines between public service and personal gain. From accepting lavish gifts from foreign governments to using taxpayer-funded resources for personal benefit, these abuses have reinforced the need for stronger accountability and oversight in Washington. Senator Adam Schiff (D-CA) has introduced companion legislation in the Senate. Read the full text of the bill here . ###