Judicial Watch files House ethics complaint against Maxine Waters for ‘inciting violence’

Judicial Watch filed Monday an ethics complaint against Rep. Maxine Waters for “inciting violence and assaults on the Trump Cabinet,” according to Tom Fitton, president of the watchdog organization.

The group sent a hand-delivered letter to the chairman and co-chairman of the House Office of Congressional Ethics calling for an investigation into whether the California Democrat violated House ethics rules by encouraging violence against Trump Cabinet members.

Ms. Waters made her remarks Saturday during a rally in Los Angeles, during which she entreated participants to “push back” on Trump staffers in public places such as restaurants or gas stations.

“In encouraging individuals to create ’crowds’ who will ’push back’ on President Trump’s Cabinet members at private business establishments and in seemingly trying to prevent these Cabinet officials from obtaining basic necessities without fear of assault and violence, Rep. Waters seems to be violation of House rules,” Mr. Fitton wrote.

He specifically cited House Rule 23, clause which requires lawmakers and others within the House to behave ’in a manner that shall reflect creditably on the House.”

Mr. Fitton has requested that the Office of Congressional Ethics conduct a “preliminary investigation” into the matter.

“Rep. Maxine Waters incited violence and assault against members of President Trump’s Cabinet,” he said in a statement. “It is urgent that the House ethics quickly act to hold her accountable for this dangerous incitement.”