Sulaimon Brown controversy: Congressional committee to probe allegations

A congressional committee will investigate Sulaimon Brown’s allegations that he was paid and promised a job during the mayoral election.

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(Photo: Jay Westcott)

Rep. Darrell Issa, (R-Calif.) released a statement saying the Oversight and Government Reform Committee's inquiry into D.C. Mayor Vincent Gray and Brown’s allegations against him.

"I asked my investigative staff to gather some basic information to determine if the District of Columbia would be able to swiftly and fairly evaluate the merit of these charges and take necessary action if appropriate,” Issa said in a statement.

He stated that committee investigators have spoken to individuals inside and outside of the District government. Investigators have also tried, unsuccessfully, to speak with key figures close to the mayor and former chief of staff.

Brown has accused to mayor of paying him during the election to speak out against former Mayor Adrian Fenty. He claims Gray also promised him a job. Brown went to the U.S. Attorneys office in D.C. t report the allegations.

Brown was fired from that job.

Gray has denied any wrongdoing.

In a statement Thursday, Gray said he welcomed to investigation into the matter. He reiterated that he asked the D.C. Attorney General to look into Brown's allegations.

He also said that while he didn't encourage federal oversight in District matters, he and his administration would cooperate fully.

Issa, meanwhile, said the federal government has responsibilities for federal taxpayer dollars.

“I was deeply concerned by allegations made by a former mayoral candidate and political appointee of D.C. mayor Vincent Gray,” Issa said. “Even after the Home Rule Act, the federal government still has significant responsibilities and federal taxpayer dollars fund a large portion of the District's budget.”


 

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