(Washington, DC) - This morning newly-elected Democrats, led by Reps. Chris Murphy, Zack Space, Baron Hill, Paul Hodes, and Betty Sutton, urged Congress to move forward with comprehensive ethics reform by calling for a nonpartisan, independent entity that will vet, initiate, and conduct investigations. 

“It’s very difficult for Members to investigate their colleagues,” Hill said. “An independent entity doing the investigating makes for a better and more removed perspective.” 

Many new Members heard frequently from constituents during the campaign about the importance of restoring Congress’ image among the public and enacting real ethics reform.  While the Special Task Force on Ethics Enforcement considers how to proceed on ethics reform, this group of new Members is recommending the creation of an independent ethics entity.  

We must undertake substantive ethics reform if we are going to restore the integrity of Congress and restore Americans’ faith in their elected officials,” Space said. “Our actions will not only enhance the most fundamental principles of a democratic society -- they will remind our constituents that we are a body of the people, not above the people.”