John, I wanted to make sure you saw this:

This is unacceptable, and CREW filed a complaint to make sure he’s held accountable.

Below, I’m going to tell you a little bit more, but I want to be clear about one thing first: No politician is above the law.

Rep. Clyde seems to have breached ethics rules in his effort to overturn gun regulations. We won’t let that stand.

John, here’s what you need to know:

• In January 2023, Attorney General Merrick Garland approved a rule that places stricter regulations on pistols equipped with stabilizing braces that allow them to be fired from the shoulder like a rifle (since they have been used in several recent mass shootings).
• Rep. Clyde owns Clyde Armory Inc., a company that sells firearms equipped with these braces.
• Since AG Garland implemented the rule, Rep. Clyde has introduced 1) legislation that would eliminate many restrictions put in place by the rule, 2) a congressional resolution that would nullify the rule, and 3) an amendment that would prevent the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives from spending any funds on implementing the rule.

But here’s the deal: House rules clearly state that members should not engage in certain official actions, such as sponsoring legislation, when they stand to financially benefit. Clyde’s actions look like a violation of those rules because he owns a business that would financially benefit from his actions.

By trying to overturn gun regulations, Representative Clyde apparently was using his official position to boost his personal financial interests.

We can’t help but ask whether Rep. Clyde is prioritizing his own profits over public service and public safety in this case. The Office of Congressional Ethics must investigate.

Thanks,

Donald Sherman
Executive Vice President and Chief Counsel
CREW