We already know that Randy Duke Cunningham traded his integrity and millions in federal contracts for a yacht, antique furniture and fancy rugs. But an internal investigation and related report by the House Intelligence Committee may soon reveal how the former Republican representative used his position on that panel to influence classified intelligence budgets to funnel funds to his associates.
The LA Times obtained a memo written by Rep. Jane Harman, D-Venice, the ranking Democrat on the intelligence committee, that indicates the report, which has yet to be made public, “provides important details about how the committee’s processes were abused to accomplish Cunningham’s illicit aims.”
“Harman’s description suggests that the seven-month probe … could significantly broaden the scope of the scandal surrounding Cunningham,” the LA Times reported.
Harman’s memo also refers to red flags that were raised and says the report “highlights some major breakdowns in the ability of our committee to prevent the damage.”
An unnamed congressional aide familiar with the report told the LA Times that the report reveals “instances in which Cunningham’s funding requests or instructions raised concerns among members of the Intelligence Committee staff.”
“He wanted certain outcomes and for the committee to do certain things,” the aide said. “That obviously raised red flags with staff.”
The article continues:
Despite those concerns, the aide said, Cunningham’s requests often were granted. For that reason, the aide added, portions of the report could be embarrassing to committee staff and leadership. Another aide said that “staff felt pressured by Cunningham” and often acquiesced, “not wanting to offend him or make him upset.”
Committee Democrats want to use their subpoena power to compel Cunningham to testify while Republicans favor a softer approach, negotiating with the former congressman’s attorney to secure his testimony.
Cunningham’s attorney has said that his client won’t testify without immunity, or until a related probe by federal prosecutors is complete. He told the LA Times that his client will invoke his 5th Amendment rights if he is subpoenaed.
The report is also expected to include new revelations about Kyle Dustin “Dusty” Foggo, who resigned his spot as the No. 3 man at the CIA earlier this year.
Foggo is close friends with Brent Wilkes, a local defense contractor, who was identified as an alleged co-conspirator in Cunningham’s bribery case last year. Foggo is also being investigated for allegedly using his position to benefit Wilkes’ company, ADCS Inc. Wilkes hasn’t been charged by prosecutors.