Reps. Marie Newman (D-Ill.) and Doug Lamborn (R-Colo.) are under investigation by the Office of Congressional Ethics (OCE) for alleged ethics violations, including misuse of funds and bribery. ‘Substantial Reason’ To Believe Newman Bribed Potential Challenger An investigation by the OCE has determined that there is “substantial reason” to believe that Newman bribed a potential challenger ahead of a tough race, offering him a cushy six-figure position to stay out of the race. According to the OCE report, Newman “promised federal employment to a primary opponent for the purpose of procuring political support” (pdf). If true, this would be a serious violation of federal law and a black mark against the Illinois Democrat. The situation began in 2020, ahead of Newman’s battle to win the Democratic nomination for her district. One potential challenger that could have beaten the Illinois marketing consultant for the nomination was Palestinian activist Iymen Chehade. As Newman …