House Republicans on Wednesday charged that a multi-billion dollar settlement with black farmers supported by the Obama administration was rife with fraud.
At a press conference in the Capitol Visitor Center, Reps. Michele Bachmann (R-Minn.), Bob Goodlatte (R-Va.) and Steve King (R-Iowa) alleged that a $1.25 billion Agriculture Department settlement to resolve discrimination claims included individuals who were never farmers.
Bachmann said the discrimination claim process was subject to “massive and widespread fraud and abuse.” King also said he believes the Obama administration has ignored the fraud allegations surrounding the settlement.
“I think they have turned a blind eye to the fraud and corruption here,” King said.
The GOP lawmakers called on Attorney General Eric Holder to start an investigation into the settlement’s claimants to ensure that they are genuine. In addition, they asked congressional leaders to not sign off on new appropriations for the settlement.
Full Story: Reps. Bachmann, King allege fraud in settlement with black farmers – TheHill.com