Representative Lauren Boebert (R-Colo.) has expressed her intention to cut the pensions of former Representative Eric Swalwell (D-Calif.) and Representative Tony Gonzalez (R-Texas), both of whom stepped down recently amid allegations of sexual misconduct.
In a video posted on X, Boebert discussed her efforts to secure the removal of taxpayer-funded pensions for Swalwell and similar politicians.
“Former Congressman Eric Swalwell abused his power to harm and exploit women,” she remarked. “At this point, taxpayers might be looking at tens of thousands of dollars going to him annually for the rest of his life. That simply can’t happen.”
Swalwell and Gonzalez qualify for federal retirement benefits through the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS), which necessitates a minimum of five years in federal service.
However, they won’t be eligible for a taxpayer-funded pension until they reach the age of 62.
Each is expected to receive around $22,000 per year for life.
Boebert shared with a CNN reporter that she believes neither Swalwell nor Gonzalez should have been allowed to resign. Instead, she argued there should have been a vote to expel or formally reprimand them.
“We really should examine how to denounce them, taking into account that they shouldn’t be able to walk away with taxpayer-funded benefits after such disgraceful actions that led to their resignations,” she stated, speaking to CNN’s Manu Raju.
Historically, only six members of Congress have faced successful expulsion.
An expulsion vote may stem from what is defined as “disorderly conduct.”
It’s worth noting that members of Congress don’t automatically forfeit their pension benefits following impeachment or expulsion. Per certain federal regulations like the HISS Act and the STOCK Act of 2012, pensions are at risk only if a member is convicted for a crime committed during their tenure.
Fox News Digital has reached out to Boebert to gain further insight into her plans on revoking the retirement benefits for former members.
