U.S. Rep. Lauren Boebert deactivates Cameo account after questions over House rules
Colorado Republican Congresswoman Lauren Boebert recently joined the popular platform Cameo, offering personalized video messages for a fee starting at $250. However, questions arose about whether charging for these services violated House rules. Boebert, who was re-elected to a third term earlier this month, described herself as a “Jesus-loving, Constitutionalist, America-first, freedom fighter” on her Cameo page.
Experts in congressional ethics raised concerns that Boebert’s decision to monetize her celebrity status might violate House rules that limit lawmakers’ outside income and prohibit sitting members from receiving payment for giving speeches. The House Ethics Committee has not yet provided formal guidance on the matter.
While Boebert’s Cameo page has since been deactivated, it is notable that some former Congress members, including Republicans George Santos and Matt Gaetz, have previously offered similar services on the platform after leaving office. Both Santos and Gaetz faced controversies during their time in Congress that ultimately led to their departure.
With a maximum outside income limit of $31,815 for House members, any income generated through platforms like Cameo would need to be reported. As the ethical implications of sitting lawmakers using Cameo remain unclear, it is uncertain whether Boebert’s attempt to connect directly with supporters in this manner will be allowed moving forward.
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