In a shocking display of political polarization and disdain for the American people, House Republicans voted on Thursday to provide the FBI with $300 million in taxpayer money for a new headquarters. The decision has prompted condemnation from a number of officials, including former FBI whistleblower Coleen Rowley, who called the GOP “soulless demons” in a scathing blog post.
Rowley, who is now a peace activist, was a prominent voice of dissent during the George W. Bush administration over the FBI’s handling of the investigation into the 9/11 terrorist attacks. She was the first to publicly call out the agency’s failure to act on warnings about hijackings originating from the Middle East.
In her post, Rowley accused the House Republicans of “betrayal” by “caving in” to a “wasteful, pork-barrel expenditure,” and criticized them for not using the money for something more sensible.
“To Where do ye House Republicans, who voted to rubber-stamp the FBI’s new HQ, imagine the American people will turn when we’re reminded that ye chose to squander $300 Million on a BIGGER new, ‘blingy’ HQ, instead of investing in PEOPLE, housing, infrastructure & such?” she asked.
Rowley went on to note that the vote was likely indicative of a broader trend of GOP lawmakers sacrificing their principles in order to stay in power.
This move by House Republicans is especially concerning at a time when the American public is facing an unprecedented amount of hardship due to economic instability and a lack of jobs.
Instead of prioritizing the needs of their constituents, House Republicans are recklessly approving a massive expenditure that will do little more than line the pockets of wealthy corporations.
Rowley’s statement serves as a reminder that political decisions must be made with the people in mind, not self-interest. The House Republicans’ vote is a troubling indication that they are prioritizing their own agenda over the needs of the people they represent.