Lauren Boebert follows Matt Gaetz in a cameo – and apparently sees why it shouldn't
Republican congressman Lauren Boebert briefly went after her former colleagues Matt Gaetz and George Santos on the paid video app Cameo — before abruptly shutting down her account.
The controversial Colorado representative posted a clip Saturday offering “America First pep talks”, birthday wishes, or other recorded messages for $250 or more.
The account reportedly did not initially identify her as a congresswoman, instead describing her as an “activist”, “political commentator”, and “not your average Republican politician”.
Video by Lauren Boebert on Cameo, now deleted (Lauren Boebert on Cameo)
But according to reports, the account soon stopped taking bookings and went completely offline after experts questioned whether it would violate congressional ethics rules.
Members of Congress are prohibited from accepting money or “things or value” for speeches or media appearances, known as “honoraria”, and they cannot make more than $31,815 in foreign earnings.
Although Boebert's fellow Republicans Matt Gaetz and George Santos offered cameo videos, both resigned from their seats.
Matt Gaetz, who resigned as a member of Congress after Donald Trump nominated him to be Attorney General, recently joined Cameo (AFP via Getty Images)
“Hey Cameo, it's your girl from Colorado, Lauren Boebert,” the 37-year-old said in her now-deleted video. “I'm really excited to join another platform where I can connect directly with fans from all over the world.”
“Whether you or someone you know needs an America First pep talk, if you want to surprise friends or family with a special day message, or if you just want to know my thoughts on whatever is on your mind, Cameo is the place to stop. Contact me.”
Cameo allows actors, musicians, and other celebrities to make money by recording short video messages for their fans (or haters).
Aaron Scherb, senior director of legal affairs at the political watchdog group Common Cause, said Colorado politics that it is not clear whether Boebert's accounts would be allowed because the House Ethics Committee has not yet answered this question.
Until they provide official guidance, the expectation is that members will probably be allowed to sign up for that,” said Scherb. “It looks like it might violate the honoraria ban, but it hasn't been tested.”
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