DAVID RIVERA (FL-25)Miami Herald - FEC asks Rep. David Rivera to explain campaign debt [Miami Herald, 8/25/11] Roll Call: Florida Freshman Rep. David Rivera's Future Plagued by Troubles

DAVID RIVERA (FL-25) Top Headlines ............................................................................................ 1

Editorials .................................................................................................... 2

Budget Issues ............................................................................................. 3

Business and Consumer Issues .................................................................. 5

Campaign Finance Issues ........................................................................... 5

Campaign 2012 .......................................................................................... 9

Congressional Issues ................................................................................ 11

Crime & Public Safety Issues .................................................................. 12

Cuba Issues .............................................................................................. 12

Economic and Financial Issues ................................................................ 13

Education Issues ...................................................................................... 14

Energy Issues ........................................................................................... 15

Environmental Issues ............................................................................... 15

Ethics Issues ............................................................................................ 16

Foreign Policy Issues – Iraq, Afghanistan, Iran, North Korea ................. 26

Gay and Lesbian Issues ............................................................................ 27

Gun Issues ............................................................................................... 27

Health Care Issues ................................................................................... 27

Immigration and Border Issues ................................................................ 27

Israel ........................................................................................................ 28

Labor and Working Family Issues ........................................................... 28

Other Social Issues .................................................................................. 29

Personal Finance Issues ........................................................................... 29

Senior Issues ............................................................................................ 29

Stem Cells ................................................................................................ 29

Tax Issues ................................................................................................ 29

Tea Party .................................................................................................. 29

Transportation Issues ............................................................................... 30

Women’s Issues ....................................................................................... 30

Top Headlines

2

“A Dream Act Without the Dream,” [New York Times, 3/27/12]

Rivera Stalls DREAM(s) to Replace with Smaller Stars, [politic365.com, 3/23/12]

Gingrich campaigns with embattled Rep. Rivera in Florida

Miami Herald: A $500,000 question over track’s payments [Miami Herald, 5/12/11]

Miami Herald: David Rivera discloses $137,000 in loans for slots campaign [Miami Herald,

1/3/11]

Miami Herald: Investigators look into Rep. Rivera’s “thank you” spending [Miami Herald,

1/15/11]

Politico: Rep. Rivera facing ethics issues [Politico, 1/25/11]

AP: Inquiry Casts shadow over Rep. Rivera fundraising [AP, 7/18/11]

Miami Herald: Feds investigate Congressman David Rivera on casino contract [Miami Herald,

7/21/11]

Roll Call: Ethics woes reportedly deepen for Florida Rep. Rivera Disputes Report of FBI and IRA

Investigations [Roll Call, 7/21/11]

Miami Herald: Attorneys: US Rep. Rivera facing federal probe [Miami Herald, 7/22/11]

Miami Herald - FEC asks Rep. David Rivera to explain campaign debt [Miami Herald, 8/25/11]

Roll Call: Florida Freshman Rep. David Rivera's Future Plagued by Troubles [Roll Call, 10/6/11]

The Hill: Rep. David Rivera's fundraising down in wake of ethics, criminal probes [The Hill,

9/27/11]

The Hill - Watchdog spotlights lawmaker ethics in 'most corrupt' report [The Hill, 9/20/11]

Miami New Times - David Rivera Named One of the Most Corrupt Congressmen [Miami New

Times, 9/20/11]

Broward/ Palm Beach New Times - David Rivera, Vern Buchanan Among 2011's "Most Corrupt

Members of Congress" [Broward Palm Beach New Times, 9/20/11]

The Daily Caller - CREW names ‘most corrupt members of Congress,’ critics raise questions

[Daily Caller, 9/20/11]

Florida Independent - Florida congressmen make ‘Most Corrupt’ list [Florida Independent;

9/20/11]

Editorials

Murky Finances Limit Rivera’s Effectiveness [Miami Herald, opnion, 5/3/11]

Palm Beach Post: This idea doesn't hold water

In August 2011, the Palm Beach Post criticized the Clean Water Cooperative Federalism Act saying:

“Bashing the Environmental Protection Agency has been a GOP theme since the party took control of the

House this year. In July, the House approved a bill sponsored by Rep. John Mica, R-Winter Park, that

would leave regulation of water quality to the states. Republican members of the Florida delegation, along

with most state politicians, oppose the EPA's proposed standards for the state's rivers, lakes and streams -

even though the Florida Department of Environmental Protection proposed essentially the same standards

in 2009. Given the rhetoric, it's hard to believe that protecting the environment once was a strongly

bipartisan issue […] Congress recognized that water and air pollution don't observe state lines, and put the

federal government in charge of stopping both. Reactionary revisionists who want to turn back the clock

ignore history and reality.” [Palm Beach Post, editorial, 9/6/11]

3

Miami Herald: House attempt to gut EPA’s enforcement of clean-water rules is dangerous

In July 2011, the Miami Herald penned an editorial criticizing legislation in the house to prevent the EPA

from imposing stricter water quality standards on states.

According to the Miami Herald, “Clean water is not a jobs killer — certainly not in Florida, which counts

on its beaches and natural assets to lure millions of tourists and billions of dollars here. Yet U.S. Reps.

John Mica, an Orlando-area Republican, and Nick Rahall, a West Virginia Democrat, have sponsored a

bill that seeks to gut the Environmental Protection Agency’s ability to regulate water quality, wetlands

protection and the removal of mountain tops in coal mining […] Clean water doesn’t have state

boundaries. The reason the EPA was created and the Clean Water Act was strengthened in 1972 was the

confusing patchwork of state-by-state water rules that allowed governors and legislatures to curry favor

with big industries in their states and permitted uses with disastrous consequences […] The legislation,

HB 2018, is being hailed as a “state-federal partnership” that will help states create jobs. This is laughable

if it weren’t so frightening […] Make no mistake. This legislation would hamstring the EPA from

overruling any state’s vague water-quality limits or ensuring dredge permits are feasible even when there

is evidence of contamination. Under HB 2018, the misnamed Clean Water Cooperative Federalism Act,

the EPA could not veto a state’s assessment of a project unless the state agrees. In effect, outdated state

rules on water-quality standards, requirements for dumping waste or trash would no longer have to answer

to federal oversight […] The GOP-led House, apparently embracing tea-party hysteria about federal

overreach, needs a reality check.” [Miami Herald, editorial, 7/11/11]

Bradenton Herald: House bill restricting EPA water rules wrong

In July 2011, the Bradenton Herald wrote an editorial criticizing legislation in the house to prevent the

EPA from imposing stricter water quality standards on states.

According to the Bradenton Herald, “The U.S. House of Representatives took a wrong turn last week with

passage of a measure that would restrict the Environmental Protection Agency from imposing stricter

water quality standards on states […]The bill’s sponsor, Rep. John Mica, R-Winter Park, argued that the

federal agency exceeded its authority in the enforcement of the Clean Water Act. Such government

overreach would be too costly on public water treatment plants and private polluters, bill supporters

maintain. This is a disservice to Florida’s fragile and polluted waterways -- coming at a time when a toxic

green slime covered the Caloosahatchee River near Alva. Such disgusting algae blooms, caused by

sewage, manure and fertilizer pollution, kill marine life, contaminate drinking water supplies and force

beach closures over the public health threat […] While proponents of the congressional measure asserted

tougher EPA enforcement would kill jobs, clean water creates and saves jobs. Polluted rivers, lakes and

bays kill jobs in the tourism and fishing industries, which, in turn, kills other jobs that depend on income

from those two economic powerhouses. The Clean Water Act came about in 1972 because states spurned

pollution regulations. [Bradenton Herald, 7/22/11]

Budget Issues

Returned $250,000 of Congressional Office Budget to Pay Down Debt

4

In February 2012, Rivera announced that he would return $250,000 of his 2011 congressional office

budget to pay down the debt.

Rivera said, “I pledged to the residents of the 25th District that bringing fiscal responsibility to

Washington would be my top priority. The only way to achieve this goal is to drastically cut spending.

However, if we are going to govern on cutting spending, then we must look to our own offices to lead by

example. Families in my South Florida district are tightening their belts and making sacrifices every day

during these tough economic times. I understand the difficulties they are facing. That is why I am making

every effort to reduce our national debt, including transferring unused funds from my Congressional

office budget to the Treasury immediately, so that future generations of Americans do not have to

shoulder such a heavy burden and our nation’s economy can get moving again.” [Rivera Press Release,

2/10/12]

Rivera A “No” Vote on Debt Ceiling

In May 2011, David Rivera voted against raising the debt ceiling saying that “Washington’s serious

budgetary issues cannot be solved by throwing money at the problem without a serious plan for how to

solve it […] House Republicans have proposed and passed a budget that would cut $6.2 trillion in federal

spending over the next decade […] Raising the federal debt limit without significant cuts to spending and

the deficit would be more of the same irresponsible behavior that led our nation to this fiscal crisis. [David

Rivera Press Release, 05/31/2011]

Was Against Raising the Debt Ceiling in 2010

In November 2010, Rivera said that “I am against increasing the debt ceiling…It is going to be very, very

difficult, I would say next to impossible to change my position on any of those issues.” [Daily Caller,

11/19/2010]

South Florida Lawmakers Get Avalanche of Calls, Emails [Palm Beach Post]

In July 2011, the Palm Beach Post reported that Rivera’s office was swamped with phone calls from

frustrated constituents.

According to the Post, “Thousands of callers with opinions on how to solve the debt crisis flooded the

Capitol switchboard Tuesday, and email traffic swamped congressional servers on both sides of the aisle.

In South Florida, Rep. Frederica Wilson, D-Miami, saw her website slow to a crawl, while Republican

Rep. David Rivera’s office handled two and a half times its normal call volume […] The Capitol, which

typically handles 20,000 calls per hour, saw spikes of up to 40,000 calls Tuesday, rivaling the 50,000-an-

hour rate of the 2010 health care debate […] Their details of their opinions varied widely, but callers and

emailers across Florida seemed to agree with the president, who warned Congress Monday night that even

if Americans voted for divided government last fall, they didn’t vote for a dysfunctional government.

Those heeding the president’s advice to make their voices heard on the debt debate had one common

refrain: Get it done.” [Palm Beach Post, 7/27/11]

Voted in Favor of Final Budget Control Act of 2011

5

In August 2011, Rivera voted in favor of the final Budget Control Act of 2011 which raised the debt

ceiling.

In a release, Rivera said “While today’s debt limit vote is certainly no solution to our nation’s debt

problem, it lays the foundation to move forward with real reforms and solutions such as a constitutional

amendment to balance the federal budget. I continue to oppose any effort to raise the nation’s debt

without such reforms. However, by cutting more spending than it raises in debt, by not raising taxes, by

capping future spending, and by providing an opportunity to move forward on a balanced budget

constitutional amendment, today’s vote provided the only alternative to President Obama’s and the liberal

Senate’s irresponsible tax and spend plans to increase the debt.” [David Rivera Press Release, 8/1/11]

Business and Consumer Issues

Campaign Finance Issues

Filed End of Year FEC Report

In January 2012, Rivera for Congress filed its October 2011 Quarterly FEC Report. Rivera raised $42,100

in the 4th quarter of 2011, has $92,832.8 cash on hand and spent $17,666.87. This cycle so far, Rivera has

only raised $188,709.38 and spent $157,239.34

Rivera received $13,800 from PACs and still has $154,080.58 worth of debt. [David Rivera for Congress, filed

1/31/12]

Contributions of Note:

Received $1000 from Exxon Mobil PAC. In November 2011, Rivera received $1000 from

Exxon Mobile PAC.

Received $1,000 from Valero Energy PAC. In November 2011, Rivera received $2000 from

Valero Energy PAC.

Received $3500 from Greenberg Traurig, P.A. PAC and GrayRobinson, P.A. PAC. In

December 2011, Rivera received a total of $3500 from Greenberg Traurig, P.A. PAC and

GrayRobinson, P.A. PAC

Received $300 from American Principals PAC. In December 2011, Rivera received $300 from

American Principals PAC, a PAC based out of Miami.

Received $13,750 from Individuals Associated with Florida Legislative Lobbying Firms. From October-December 2011, Rivera raised $13,750 from Individuals associated with Florida

lobbying firms including: Ronald Book (and spouse), Wilbur Brewton, Matthew Bryan, Martha

Edenfield, Reginald Garcia, Mark Maxwell, Larry Overton, and Richard Reeves

Expenditures of Note:

6

Spent $6,006 on Legal Fees. From October-December 2011, Rivera spent $6,006 on legal

services.

Spent $9,000 on Accounting Services. From October-December 2011, Rivera spent $9,000 on

accounting services with Robert Watkins and Company.

Other Items of Note:

Rivera Owes $148,080 to Vendors. Rivera owes $29,859 to Capital Strategies for fundraising

consulting, $89,221.08 for media expenses, $10,000 to The Factor for media consulting and

$19,000 to a GF Strategies from the 2010 general for fundraising consulting. Last quarter, he

owed the same amount to vendors. He still has a $6,000 outstanding loan to himself.

Rivera is Facing Multiple Investigations For Abusing Hs Power for Financial Gain. “An

increasing number of House Republicans are getting wrapped up in allegations of ethics violations

ahead of the November elections […] Rep. David Rivera (R-Fla.), who is being investigated by

the FBI, IRS, Miami-Dade Police Department’s public corruption unit, the Miami-Dade State

Attorney’s Office and Florida Department of Law Enforcement over allegations that he abused his

former seat in Florida’s state House of Representatives for personal financial gain and repeatedly

lied on financial disclosure forms.” [The Hill, 1/31/12]

Rivera’s scandals are hurting his fundraising. “Florida Rep. David Rivera (R) finds himself

trapped in a strange political purgatory […] And with reports in the Miami Herald that Rivera is

also under investigation by the FBI and the IRS, he has had trouble bringing in the kind of money

he might need to fend off a primary opponent. Rivera raised just $35,000 in the second quarter —

and $5,000 of that was from his mother. At the end of June, he had $62,000 in cash on hand but

had $152,000 in outstanding debts, according to Federal Election Commission records.” [Roll

Call, 10/06/11]

Raised $42,100 in 4th

Quarter

In February 2012, Rivera reported raising $42,100 in the 4th

quarter of 2011. He had $92,832 cash on

hand and his campaign had a debt of $154,080. [Miami Herald, 2/1/12]

Rivera Filed Third Quarter FEC Report

In October 2011, Rivera for Congress filed its October 2011 Quarterly FEC Report. Rivera raised

$26,500.87 in the 3rd quarter of 2011, has $68,399.24 cash on hand and spent $20,137.70.

Rivera received $3,500 from PACs and still has $154,080.58 worth of debt. [David Rivera for Congress,

filed10/14/11]

Expenditures of Note:

Spent $8,012 on Legal Fees. From July-September 2011, Rivera spent $8012 on legal fees at

Paton Boggs.

7

Spent $9,000 on Accounting Services. From July-September 2011, Rivera spent $9,000 on

accounting services with Robert Watkins and Company.

Other Items of Note:

Rivera Owes $148,080 to Vendors. Rivera owes $29,859 to Capital Strategies for fundraising

consulting, $89,221.08 for media expenses, $10,000 to The Factor for media consulting and $19,000 to a

GF Strategies from the 2010 general for fundraising consulting. Last quarter, he owed $155,474 to

vendors. He still has a $6,000 outstanding loan to himself.

Took $500 from Goldman Sachs

In February 2011, Politico Reported that Rivera had taken $500 from the Goldman Sachs Political Action

Committee. [Politico – Huddle, 2/22/11]

Rivera’s First Fundraiser in DC Cost $80,000

In January 2011, Rivera was part of a group of freshman republicans who held a swanky fundraiser at the

W Hotel in Downtown Washington, DC. The fundraiser cost $80,000, which included $25,000 to have

LeAnn Rimes perform, $22,000 for catering and lighting and $10,000 for “floral expense and event

design.” [Politico, 1/31/11]

Attended Lavish Republican Gala That Only Netted $650

In April 2011, Southerland attended a lavish GOP Gala that only netted $650. According to the Florida

Independent, “Florida Reps. Steve Southerland, R-Tallahassee, and David Rivera, R-Miami, were two of

the attendees of the high-profile GOP fundraiser, which cost $2,500 a head.” [Florida Independent, 4/20/11]

Gala Only Netted $650

According to McClatchy Newspapers, the America's New Majority political action committee

who sponsored the event “ barely broke even at a glitzy and controversial January GOP fundraiser

featuring country singer LeAnn Rimes, new campaign filings show […] Between assorted fees,

flowers, catering and other costs, Denham's special fundraising committee reported spending

$212,250 on the Rimes event. The committee, meanwhile, raised only $212,900 from outside

contributors” [McClatchy Newspapers, 4/15/11]

Southerland Potential Beneficiary of PAC

According to McClatchy Newspapers, “Other potential beneficiaries [of the money raised]

included Florida Reps. Steve Southerland and David Rivera.” [McClatchy Newspapers, 4/15/11]

Rivera Fundraising Takes A Hit

In July 2011, the Miami Herald reported that Rivera’s fundraising has taken a hit because of the

investigation against him.

8

According to the paper, “The fundraising reports released last night for the second quarter of the year

show the Miami Republican took in just $33,500. And he spent $40,584.82. So the freshmen whose party

is railing about fiscal responsibility is shelling out more than he's taking in.” [Miami Herald, 7/18/2011]

Rivera Filed 2011 July Quarterly FEC Report

Rivera for Congress filed its July Quarterly FEC Report. West raised 1581333.74 in the 2nd

quarter and

has $1,266,356.28 cash on hand. He received $151,148.10 from PACs.

Contributions of Note:

Received $5,000 from Ileana Medina. In June 2011, Rivera received $5,000 from Ileana Medina.

[David Rivera for Congress 2011, July Quarterly FEC Report, filed 7/15/11]

Expenditures of Note:

Paid $10,000 to Fundraising Consultants. In May 2011, Rivera paid $10,000 to two fundraising

consultants. [David Rivera for Congress 2011, July Quarterly FEC Report, filed 7/15/11]

Paid $6,038 in Legal Services and Fees. In April and May, Rivera paid $6038 to Patton Boggs in

DC. [David Rivera for Congress 2011, July Quarterly FEC Report, filed 7/15/11]

Other Items of Note:

Rivera Received $11,500.00 from PACs. In his July 2011 Quarterly FEC report, Rivera received

$11,500.00 from PACs including National Rifle Association, National Air Traffic Controllers and

National Association of Insurance and Financial Advisors. [David Rivera for Congress 2011, July

Quarterly FEC Report, filed 7/15/11]

Rivera Spent More than Raised: IN his July 2011 Quarterly FEC report, Rivera spent $40584.82

and only raised $33,500. [David Rivera for Congress 2011, July Quarterly FEC Report, filed

7/15/11

Rivera Had $151,580.58 of Debt. Rivera has significant debt owed to consultants and vendors.

Rivera owes $27,358 to Capital Strategies for fundraising consulting, $89,221 to the Victory

Group, $10,000 to The Factor for media consulting and $19,000 to GF Strategies for fundraising

consulting. Rivera has a personal loan for $6,000. [David Rivera for Congress 2011, July

Quarterly FEC Report, filed 7/15/11]

Rivera Not Attending NRCC Dinner

In July 2011, the Miami Herald reported that Rivera would not be attending an NRCC fundraiser.

The paper reported that Rivera would not be there because he’s “snarled in a legal investigation over his

ties to a $500,000 dog track, his changing statements, and his questionable federal and state financial

disclosure forms (each of which he changed).” [Miami Herald, 7/18/2011]

9

Received 43% from Heritage Action for America

Based on 30 key votes from January-August 2011, Rivera received a 43% score from the Heritage Action

for America. [Heritage Action for America, accessed 9/6/11]

Rivera: FEC Questions His Debt

In August 2011, The FEC started questioning Rep. Rivera about the new debt he accrued.

The Miami Herald reported, “An amended report filed in July from the second quarter of the year

‘discloses a substantial increase in the amount of debts from those disclosed on your original report,’ the

FEC noted in a Aug. 9 letter to his campaign. Please amend your report or provide an explanation to

clarify why this additional activity was not provided with your original report.’ When Rivera was asked

publicly about the FEC’s questions the Miami Herald reported that Rivera, said ‘You'll have to ask

Nancy,’ referring to his campaign treasurer, Nancy Watkins. ‘They didn't send it (the letter) to me. They

sent it to Nancy.’" [Miami Herald 8/25/11]

Rivera Called Campaign Contribution “Loser”

In October 2011, the Washington Post labeled Rivera and other Florida representatives Daniel Webster

and Steve Southerland as “losers” because of his lower fundraising numbers. [Washington Post, 10/17/11]

Rivera Reported Low Campaign Contributions for 2nd

Quarter 2011

In October 2011, it was reported that Rivera “raised just $35,000 in the second quarter — and $5,000 of

that was from his mother. At the end of June, he had $62,000 in cash on hand but had $152,000 in

outstanding debts.” [Roll Call, 10/6/11]

Campaign 2012

Rivera an “unlikely supporter” of Gingrich

In January 2012, Univision wrote that Gingrich has attracted an “unlikely supporter.”

“Newt Gingrich has actively sought out Latinos since launching his GOP presidential bid, but this week

he campaigned with one very unlikely supporter: Florida Rep. David Rivera […] But hardly anyone

expected Rivera, a freshman lawmaker, to be a player during the GOP primary: he’s spent his first term in

Congress facing state and federal criminal investigation into his personal and campaign finances.” [Univisison, 1/18/12]

Rivera an “unlikely supporter” of Gingrich

10

In January 2012, Rivera said Gingrich was the only candidate with “sufficient political experience to take

on the challenge of the presidency.” [The Hill, 1/27/12]

Named 1 of 5 Most Likely Retirees by Politico

In February 2012, Politico named Rivera 1 of 5 most likely retirees due to multiple investigations

surrounding him.

Rivera did not receive donations form House Republicans, party leaders, and the NRCC did not include

him on their protection program for vulnerable incumbents. [Politico, 2/1/12]

Introduced Newt Gingrich at Campaign Event

In January 2012, Rivera introduced Gingrich at a campaign event. Both men were listed on Judicial

Watch’s most corrupt politicians of 2011 list. [Washington Post, 1/13/12]

Campaigned Hard for Gingrich

In January 2012, Rivera campaigned hard for Gingrich and touted Gingrich’s plan for

immigration reform and plan to increase pressure on the Cuban government. [Miami Herald, 1/17/12]

FL-25: American Action Network Placed Ad in Miami Herald to Support David Rivera

In October 2010, the American Action Network placed a half page ad to support David Rivera in the

Miami Herald. [Eye on Miami, 10/10/11]

FL-25: Newt Gingrich embraces David Rivera, though few do

In January 2012, Politico reported Rivera was endorsing presidential candidate, Newt Gingrich, although

“No one seems to have told Newt Gingrich, but most Republicans in Florida keep their distance from

David Rivera. But there Rivera was on Friday afternoon, standing behind Gingrich at a campaign stop in

Little Havana — in full sight of rolling TV cameras. Rivera even introduced — and endorsed —

Gingrich. [Politico, 1/14/12]

FL-25: House Republicans Haven’t Been Eager to Help Rivera

11

In January 2012, Politico reported that House Republicans haven’t eager to help Rivera.

“Though Rivera’s helping Gingrich, the House Republicans haven’t been too eager to help Rivera. GOP

leaders haven’t given him a dollar. Early on in his tenure, House Majority Leader Eric Cantor told

reporters that he was “very concerned” about the investigations into the congressman and Cantor — who

travels frequently to Florida to raise money — hasn’t bothered to invite Rivera to fundraising events he

has held in Miami. The National Republican Congressional Committee hasn’t placed Rivera in its

incumbent protection program, even though he has drawn a serious Democratic challenger.” [Politico,

1/14/12]

Rivera Not Endorsed by Any Other Member of Congress

In October 2011, it was reported than no member of Congress had donated to Rivera’s campaign in the

2012 election cycle, despite the fact that Rivera was once considered a top candidate by the NRCC and

“at least 21 Republican lawmakers gave to Rivera’s campaign in the last election cycle [2010], including

House Speaker John Boehner (Ohio), who gave $2,000, and a political action committee associated with

House Majority Whip Kevin McCarthy (Calif.), which gave $5,000. [Roll Call, 10/6/11; The Hill, 10/24/11]

House Republicans avoid Rivera. Both John Boehner and Eric Cantor avoid Rivera, with

Cantor telling the media he was “very concerned” about the Rivera investigation. [The Hill, 10/24/11]

Supported by Rep. Denham. In September 2011, The Hill reported that California Rep. Jeff

Denham did support Rivera, but Denham himself was only recently cleared by the Federal

Elections Commission, “which deadlocked on three allegations against Denham and dismissed

five others regarding an alleged violation of campaign finance laws.” [The Hill, 10/24/11] CREW

listed Denham in its “Dishonorable Mention” section and called him the “most shameful” instance

in the report. [The Hill, 9/20/11]

DCCC Hit in District

In July 2011, the Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee launched “robo-calls to hit

Republicans in 60 districts across the country,” including David Rivera. [Orlando Sentinel, 7/25/2011]

Rivera Expected to be Challenged by Republicans

In October 2011, a number of Democratic and Republican candidates hinted at their interests in seeking

Rivera’s House seat including Republican Sens. Anitere Flores, Miguel Diaz de la Portilla and former

state Rep. J.C. Planas. [Roll Call, 10/6/11]

Congressional Issues

Named Runner-Up Loser of 2011 Florida Politics

In 2011, Rivera was named a runner up loser of Florida politics by the Tampa Bay Times due to his

ethical and legal issues, poor fundraising, and the fact that his Washington colleagues were keeping their

distance from him. [Tampa Bay Times, 1/1/12]

12

Missed .3 Percent of Votes

In 2012, the Herald Tribune reported that Rivera missed .3 percent of votes since he took office. [Herald-

Tribune, 12/21/11]

Rivera Traveled to Columbia and Panama on House-Sponsored Trip

From May 16 to May 20, Rivera traveled to Columbia and Panama on a trip sponsored by the House.

Though transportation costs were undisclosed, Rivera spent $945 in per diem expenditures. [Clerk of the

House Travel Disclosure, 8/16/11]

Rivera took $650 trip to Fort Worth, TX Courtesy of AEPC

From August 15 to August 17 2011, Rivera traveled to Fort Worth, Texas paid for by the American

Exploration and Production Council. AEPC spent a total of $650.05 on the trip, $384.87 on

transportation, $218 on lodging, and $47.18 on meals. [Clerk of the House Travel Disclosure, 8/23/11]

Crime & Public Safety Issues

Cuba Issues

Called for the Indictment of Castro Brothers

In February 2011, Rivera called for the indictment of the Castro brothers. He said:

Fifteen years ago, Raul Castro gave the order that brought down the Brothers to the

Rescue planes, and he faced no consequences...The Obama administration needs to do

more, beginning with revoking the recent concessions given to the Castro dictatorship

and indicting the Castro brothers for their murderous role in the Brothers to the Rescue

shootdown. This will send a clear message that acts of terror and repression are not

acceptable or tolerable. [Miami Herald, 2/24/11]

Rivera Opposed Obama’s Loosening of Cuba Travel Restrictions

Rivera used a trip to the White House to directly tell President Obama that he opposed his plan to loosen

the restrictions on the travel policy to Cuba.

“Between the Cuban people and his efforts,” Rivera said, “stand the Castro tyranny.” [St. Pete Times

Blog, 1/24/11]

Rivera Said Univision Was Extorting Rubio

In October 2011, Rivera, along with state Reps. Carlos Lopez-Cantera and Erik Fresen, demanded that the

television network, Univision, which is the most influential Spanish-language television network in the

country, apologize for its suspected extortion of US Senator Marco Rubio. Univision was accused of

offering to downplay or kill a story about a decades-old drug bust of Rubio’s brother-in-law if Rubio

13

would agree to an interview with the Network. After refusing to accept the offer, the story was run by

Univision. [Miami Herald, 10/3/11]

Economic and Financial Issues

Received “B” Grade From Americans for Prosperity

In January 2011, Americans for Prosperity scored the most important economic votes of the first session

of the 112th Congress. Representative Rivera received a grade of B from Americans for Prosperity. [Americans for Prosperity 112

th Congress Mid Term Scorecard,1/2012]

AFP Founded In 2003 By David H. Koch. The New York Times wrote about David H. Koch,

noting that “in 2003 he helped establish the nonprofit Americans for Prosperity Foundation, which

supports free-market policies and promotes government spending limits. It split off from an earlier

Koch-backed enterprise, now called FreedomWorks, which promotes similar goals.” [New York

Times, 7/10/08]

Americans for Prosperity Funded, Run by Koch Industries Executives. Americans for

Prosperity was founded by David H. Koch, one of the wealthiest men in America and the

executive vice president and board member of Koch Industries, which was founded by his father.

Recently, Koch gave $5 million to Americans for Prosperity. In 2009, AFP President Tim Phillips

said Koch “launched our organization.” The executive Vice President of Koch Industries said,

“What we have done is support the Americans for Prosperity Foundation, which has been active in

various forms for nearly 30 years.” [New York Times, 7/10/08; MSNBC, 3/31/10; Politico, 10/14/08,

Washington Examiner, 7/18/10; Washington Independent, 10/5/09]

Rivera Pledges Fiscal Responsibility His Top Priority

In May 2011, Rivera said that he “pledged to the voters of Florida’s 25th district that fiscal responsibility

would be my top priority.” [David Rivera Press Release, 05/31/2011]

Delivered Politically Charged Commencement Speech

In June 2011, Rivera delivered a speech in which he challenged graduates “to hold leaders accountable for

bringing back fiscal responsibility.”

In his speech, Rivera said that “We can choose to continue along a path where high spending levels go

unchecked; where businesses do not have faith in our economy and hesitate to hire new employees; and

where there’s more concern for the growth of government than for the growth of an American family’s

pocketbook.”

Rivera also invoked the following quote from Ronald Reagan: “You and I have a rendezvous with

destiny. We'll preserve for our children this, the last best hope of man on earth, or we'll sentence them to

take the last step into a thousand years of darkness.” [David Rivera Commencement Speech, 06/13/2011]

14

Voted In Favor of Cut, Cap, and Balance Act

In July 2011, David Rivera voted in support of the Cut, Cap, and Balance Act, which mandated a cut in

spending in FY2012, a federal cap on spending as a percentage of GDP, and a balanced budget

amendment to the Constitution.

In a press release, Rivera said that he would “support the Cut, Cap, Balance Act because it would restore

fiscal responsibility now, and prevent future politicians from going back to continuous deficit spending.” [David Rivera Press Release, 7/19/2011]

Rivera Spent $2,408 of Tax Payer Dollars on “Travel Subsistence.”

In June 2011, Rivera’s disbursements included $2,408.90 for travel subsistence on a Citibank

Government Card. This year so far, Rivera has been reimbursed 6,620.60 for parking, tolls, private auto

mileage and commercial transportation. [2011 2nd

Quarter Statements of Disbursement, 7/5/11; 112th

Congress, 1st Session Statement of Disbursements 1Q 2011, 5/23/11]

Rivera Paid $39,330 in Tax Payer Dollars to a Campaign Contributor.

Since January, Rivera has paid $39,330, $6,555 a month, to Birdside Center for district office rent in

Miami. According to the Florida Department of State Division of Corporations, Birdside Center’s

registered agent is Nestor Machado. In September 2010, Nestor Machado contributed $500 to David

Rivera. [Florida Department of State Division of Corporations, accessed 8/30/11; CQ Moneyline,

accessed 8/30/11; 2011 112th

Congress 2nd

Quarter Statements of Disbursement, 7/5/11; Statement of

Disbursements of the House 1Q 2011, 5/23/11]

Rivera Said Jobs Are Top Priority

In January 2011, Rivera said “Jobs and the economy are the top priority of this Congress.” [Rivera Week in

Review, 1/23/11]

Democracy for America Targeted West and Rivera

In August 2011, Democracy for America will run an ad in Reps. Allen West and David Rivera’s district.

According to Huffington Post, “And in another sign that liberal-minded organizations still place GOP

obstruction at the top of their list of chief obstacles, one such group is going up with a new ad campaign

accusing the GOP of endangering the American Dream.The ad, sponsored by Democracy for America,

will air nationally at first -- with a prime time spot during NBC's ‘Meet the Press’ as well as ‘Inside

Washington’-- before it is tailored for local versions that target individual lawmakers. The first two

targets, one DFA official tells The Huffington Post, will be Reps. Allen West and David Rivera, both

Republican freshmen from Florida.” [Huffington Post 8/32/2011]

Note: Democracy for America uploaded “Don’t Kill the Dream” to YouTube. [YouTube, uploaded 8/22/11]

Education Issues

15

Energy Issues

Criticized Obama on Keystone XL Pipeline

In November 2011, Rivera criticized Obama on Keystone XL pipeline.

“Florida Republican U.S. Rep. David Rivera tore into President Barack Obama on Tuesday over the

administration’s decision to postpone the Keystone XL project. ‘President Obama has decided to play

politics with an issue that intersects at the avenues of jobs, foreign affairs and energy,’ said Rivera. ‘By

postponing the approval of the Keystone pipeline, out of a concern for his own electoral future, the

president has jeopardized 20,000 American jobs’” [Sunshine State News, 11/15/11]

Rivera Supports Nuclear Energy

Rivera visits a FL nuclear plant and declares his support for nuclear energy. According to the Miami

Herald, “Congresswomen Ileana Ros-Lehtinen and Frederica Wilson, along with congressmen Mario

Diaz-Balart and David Rivera, said they still support nuclear energy, but promised to keep vigilant.”

[Miami Herald, 4/18/11]

Agreed with Obama on Free Trade Agreement

In September 2011, Rivera agreed with Obama on passing three free trade agreements.

“President Obama once again mentioned the United States’ pending free trade agreements with Colombia,

Panama and South Korea as a potential area for economic growth and job creation in our country. His

own administration estimates that the three agreements could create upwards of a quarter of a million

American jobs […] If the President is going to continue pointing to the free trade agreements as potential

engines for economic growth, he should let his actions speak and send all three agreements to Congress

where they will no doubt garner bipartisan approval.” [St. Petersburg Times, 9/8/11]

Environmental Issues

Opposed PIONEERS Act Because of Unclear Drilling Implications for Florida

In February 2012, Rivera voted against PIONEERS Act citing, an ambiguity in just how close drilling

could go on to the Florida coastline.

Rivera said, “I fully support expanding our domestic energy capacity and exploration for additional

energy resources. These efforts help decrease our dependence on foreign oil and strengthen our nation’s

economy. However, allowing exploration so close to Florida’s beaches and shores, particularly South

Florida and the Florida Keys, could have a negative impact on our state’s environment and on our tourism

and hospitality industry, a lifeblood of Florida’s economy.” [Sunshine State News, 2/22/12]

Rivera Voted for Anti EPA Bill

16

In July 2011, Rep. Rivera voted for H.R. 2018, the Clean Water Cooperative Federalism Act which was

sponsored by Rep. John Mica. According to McClatchy, the “House bill would revise the Clean

Water Act to prevent the EPA from setting water-pollution standards when it finds that state standards

don't protect public health […] The bill was sponsored by Rep. John Mica, R-Fla., who objected

to EPA water regulations for algae in Florida rivers [..] The House passed the bill Wednesday night. The

239-184 vote was largely along party lines, with only 13 Republicans opposed.” [H.R. 2018, Vote #573,

7/13/11; McClatchy, 7/13/11]

Rivera Voted for Bill that Would Limit EPA Regulatory Responsibilities

In July 2011, Rivera voted for H.R. 2018, the Clean Water Cooperative Federalism Act which was

sponsored by Rep. John Mica. According to McClatchy, the “House bill would revise the Clean Water

Act to prevent the EPA from setting water-pollution standards when it finds that state standards don't

protect public health […] The bill was sponsored by Rep. John Mica, R-Fla., who objected to EPA water

regulations for algae in Florida rivers [..] The House passed the bill Wednesday night. The 239-184 vote

was largely along party lines, with only 13 Republicans opposed.” [H.R. 2018, Vote #573, 7/13/11;

McClatchy, 7/13/11]

Rivera Voted for Bill that Would Limit EPA Regulatory Responsibilities

In July 2011, Rivera voted for H.R. 2018, the Clean Water Cooperative Federalism Act which was

sponsored by Rep. John Mica. According to McClatchy, the “House bill would revise the Clean Water

Act to prevent the EPA from setting water-pollution standards when it finds that state standards don't

protect public health […] The bill was sponsored by Rep. John Mica, R-Fla., who objected to EPA water

regulations for algae in Florida rivers [..] The House passed the bill Wednesday night. The 239-184 vote

was largely along party lines, with only 13 Republicans opposed.” [H.R. 2018, Vote #573, 7/13/11;

McClatchy, 7/13/11]

Ethics Issues

Denied Knowledge of Criminal Investigations

In March 2012, Rivera denied any knowledge of state and federal investigations into his alleged criminal

conduct.

“I don’t know any investigation about any money that has been used in an inappropriate way...Everything

has been proper, and I don’t have any information about any investigation or any of those topics,” said

Rivera. [univisionnews.com, 3/19/12]

FL-25: Rivera Under Investigation for $800,000 in Payments to “Girlfriend”

In January 2012, Politico noted that Rivera was under investigation for $800,000 in payments to his

“girlfriend.”

17

“Rivera, a former Miami Dade County GOP chairman who has long been active in the state’s Hispanic

community, still has strong political ties — including to Gingrich. Jose Mallea, Gingrich’s Florida

campaign director, has a long friendship with Rivera. Also, Esther Nuhfer, a Miami-based GOP

consultant is heading up the former House speaker’s fundraising in the state, has worked on Rivera’s

campaigns. Nuhfer’s relationship with Rivera — he described her as his “girlfriend” — has come under

scrutiny from investigators, who have reportedly looked into more than $800,000 Nuhfer received in

payments from campaign and committees tied to the now-congressman since 2006, according to federal

and state records. Nuhfer has been interviewed by the FBI as part of its investigation in Rivera, The

Miami Herald reported.” [Politico, 1/14/12]

Nuhfer Received $817,000 Tied to Campaigns Associated with David Rivera. “Before

launching his bid for Congress last year, David Rivera embarked on a record-breaking campaign

for state Senate, amassing more than $1 million in donations some eight months before Election

Day. Rivera paid $250,000 of that money to his fundraiser and longtime ally, Esther Nuhfer —

including $150,000 in "bonus" money, records show — all for a political campaign that Rivera

never finished […] Rivera's nascent Washington career is in jeopardy, as criminal investigators in

Miami and Tallahassee comb through his personal finances and campaign accounts — including

the Senate account that fattened Nuhfer's paycheck. Investigators are focusing on Rivera's tight

relationship with Nuhfer […]Since 2006, Nuhfer's consulting firm has received at least $817,000

in fees from Rivera's political campaigns, or from political committees tied to the Republican

congressman and former state lawmaker ” [Tampa Tribune, 2/19/11; Miami Herald, 2/5/11]

Nuhfer Paid in Rivera’s Slots Campaign. “Rivera's deal with the dog track — now called Magic

City Casino — is one of the transactions now under investigation by the Miami-Dade Police

Department, the Florida Department of Law Enforcement and the Miami-Dade State Attorney's

Office. Rivera has denied any wrongdoing, though he has acknowledged receiving $132,000 in

undisclosed loans from Millennium — money Rivera says he repaid before taking his

congressional seat […] Among the consultants hired was Nuhfer, who worked closely with

Rivera, said consultant Brian May, who also worked on the campaign. Nuhfer's firm was among

the highest-paid on the slots campaign, earning more than $110,000 in fees from a political

committee financed by the gaming industry, records show.” [Tampa Tribune, 2/19/11]

Nuhfer Interview by FBI. “Federal investigators have opened a second criminal probe of U.S.

Rep. David Rivera, examining undisclosed payments from a Miami gambling enterprise to a

company tied to the Republican congressman, The Miami Herald has learned […]Earlier this year,

FBI agents also interviewed Esther Nuhfer, a Miami lobbyist and political consultant with close

ties to Rivera, sources said. “ [Miami Herald, 7/21/11]

Accused of Abusing Congressional Franking Privilege With Medicare Mailer

In December 2011, Rivera was accused of abusing his office’s franking privileges by sending out a glossy

mailer on Medicare. Rivera’s office promised to follow up about the mailing but never did. [Miami New

Times, 12/9/11]

Loophole Has Stalled Rivera Probe

18

In December 2011, the Sun Sentinel reported that a campaign finance loophole as stalled the David

Rivera investigation.

“The yearlong Miami-Dade State Attorney's Office investigation into U.S. Rep. David Rivera's personal

and campaign finances has stalled over questions about more than $100,000 in undisclosed campaign

donations that appear to fall under a little-known loophole in Florida's campaign-finance laws. Rivera

collected the money not for a political office but for a campaign he mounted for an obscure, unpaid

position within the Republican Party. Campaigns for party posts are not governed by state election laws,

allowing Rivera to raise and spend as much money as he wanted without public disclosure or contribution

limits.” [Sun Sentinel, 12/17/11]

Rivera Made Statement Denying Any Wrongdoing

"Any money raised and spent in relation to Congressman Rivera's campaigns for the Republican

Party of Florida state executive committee was done with the strictest adherence to all applicable

legal requirements and any suggestion to the contrary is completely false," the statement said.

"Congressman Rivera has at all times acted in compliance with both the letter and spirit of

campaign finance regulations and has timely, properly and publicly reported all personal income."

[Sun Sentinel, 12/17/11]

Rivera Claimed “Official Conduct Most Transparent of Any Member of Congress”

In February 2011, when questioned about his ethical conduct, Rivera said “I’m probably the most

transparent member of Congress as of right now.” He pointed to the release of his personal financial

disclosure “to dispel a lot of any concerns that may have been put out there during the campaign.” [Naples

News, 2/25/11]

Rivera Claimed “Nothing Improper, Nothing Inappropriate Done” Regarding His Questionable

Expenses and Reimbursements While In FL legislature

In April 2011, Fox 4 reported on the continual investigation into Rivera’s “questionable expenses” from

his 8 years as part of the FL legislature. According to Fox 4, “ some say Rivera's own political career is on

life support as he faces questions about his campaign finances. The controversy surrounds a report that

Rivera paid himself nearly $60,000 dollars in unexplained reimbursements over the 8 years he served in

the Florida legislature…In the past, the Congressman had denied taking money that wasn't a legitimate

reimbursement.”

Rivera claimed, “everything that has been disclosed for every elected official has been disclosed. I know

that there has been nothing improper, nothing inappropriate done.”

According to Fox 4, “ not everyone is convinced” of Rivera’s innocence. “Several published reports

indicate Rivera is now facing a criminal investigation by the state attorney's office even as he tries to

show voters his focus is on issues like creating jobs and tackling the national debt.” [Fox 4, 4/27/11]

Rivera Failed to Report $137,000 Loan from Mother’s Company

19

In January 2011, Rivera, admitted receiving $137,000 in undisclosed loans from Millennium Marketing, a

company co-owned by his mother and whose corporate address is Rivera’s godmother’s apartment in

west Miami-Dade. The company is currently under criminal investigation over secret payments from the

Flagler Dog Track during its campaign to bring slot machines to Miami-Dade pari-mutuels. Rivera

claimed that he has repaid all loans “in full with interest.”

According to the Miami Herald, in 2006, “Flagler Dog Track agreed to pay as much as $1 million to

Millennium under a contract for Rivera to manage Flagler’s successful political campaign to win voter

approval for slot machines in Miami-Dade County.” Flagler ultimately paid $510,000 to Millennium.

Rivera has insisted that he received no income from the Millennium. [Miami Herald, 1/03/11]

Rivera Reported Loan “Out of an Abundance of Caution”

David Rivera failed to report his more than $130,000 loans until after the election, on December

16th

, when his attorney hand deliver them. The official documents state that the loans total

$132,000, not $137,000 like previously stated by Rivera.

On the cover letter of the document, Rivera wrote that he did not think the loans had to be reported

at the time of his statement of candidacy and were now being reported “out of an abundance of

caution.” [Washington Post, 1/04/11]

Rivera Causes GOP More Headaches

According to Politico, the undisclosed loan is just the “latest ethical cloud hovering” over Rivera.

In 2002, he was accused of running a truck off the road that held flyers targeting him. Florida

Senator, Marco Rubio, and Rivera were both sued in 2010 for missing payments on their

Tallahassee home. Finally, Rivera listed the U.S. Agency for International Development on his

financial disclosure form but the agency couldn’t say whether he ever worked for them.

[Politico.com, 1/04/11]

Rivera Investigated for Questionable “Thank You” Spending

After dropping out of a state Senate race in 2010 to run for Congress, Rep. Rivera set aside tens of

thousands of dollars from his dormant Senate campaign account to say “thank you” to supporters of a race

he never intended to finish. According to the Miami Herald, those “thank you campaign” dollars are now

being scrutinized as part of an expanding criminal investigation of Rivera’s personal and campaign

accounts by Miami-Dade police and prosecutors.

Rivera paid the money to a company called ACH Fundraising Strategies -- a Miami-based business

founded by the daughter of a longtime aide. He wrote a $50,000 check to ACH on July 15, 2010, the day

before the firm was incorporated as a business. ACH was dissolved in December. [Miami Herald,

1/15/11]

Spent $243,000 from 2004-2010 on Thank You Spending

20

From 2004 to 2010, Rivera spent almost $243,000 in campaign donations on “thank you”

expenses -- far more than any other state candidate, and accounting for almost one-quarter of all

the thank-you money spent in Florida during that period, a Miami Herald analysis of state

campaign data found. [Miami Herald, 1/15/11]

Half of Money Went to Consulting Firms

More than $122,000 of Rivera’s thank-you expenses went to consulting firms, including two

payments to ACH totaling $75,000, records show.

Rivera “has always felt a strong desire to express this appreciation after every election and will

continue to do so,” his campaign statement said. [Miami Herald, 1/15/11]

Questionable Spending on Company Owned by Mother and Godmother

In 2006, Rivera spent $15,000 on a “thank you” campaign through a company called Millennium

Marketing -- a company co-owned by Rivera’s 70-year-old mother and his godmother.

Rivera’s ties with Millennium are at the heart of a criminal investigation. Millennium received

more than $500,000 in secret payments from the Flagler Dog Track as part of an agreement with

Rivera to manage a political campaign on behalf of parimutuels seeking voter approval for slot

machines in Miami-Dade County.

Rivera long maintained that he received no income from his work for the track. But in January,

2011 he acknowledged receiving $132,000 from Millennium, payments Rivera had not previously

disclosed in financial disclosure forms.

Rivera said the payments were loans from his mother’s company, which he repaid after he won

election to Congress on Nov. 2. Rivera has said he did not believe he was obliged to report the

loans under state and federal disclosure rules. [Miami Herald, 1/15/11]

Headline: Rep. Rivera’s Fundraising Consultant Collected $817,000 in Fees Since 2006

In 2011, the Miami Herald reported that since 2006, Rivera’s campaigns for Congress and the Florida

House paid Esther Nuhfer’s consulting firm, Communication Solutions, $817,000 in fees. When

questioned for the article, Rivera described Nuhfer as his fundraising consultant but in 2010 said, “She’s a

close friend.” Nuhfer was also a lobbyist in Tallahassee who was often seen working out of Rivera’s

office and was his legislative aide’s roommate. [Miami Herald, 2/20/11]

Florida Department of Law Enforcement Took Over Rivera Case

In January 2011Miami-Dade State Attorney Katherine Fernandez Rundle removed one of her top

prosecution teams from Rivera’s investigation and asked the Florida Department of Law Enforcement to

take over as the lead agency. The FDLE led the probe will look into Rivera’s personal and campaign

spending from 2010 as well as his ties to Millennium Marketing and a dog track. A spokesperson for

21

Fernandez said, “We think that’s a priority for the office, and the community.” The investigation started

weeks before Rivera’s November win and only intensified after. [The Miami Herald, 1/19/11]

Miami Herald Dug into Rivera’s Murky Finances

In May 2011, the Miami Herald exposed the continued criminal investigations into Rivera’s murky

finances. According to the Miami Herald, “Rep. David Rivera is nobody’s fool, but he appears to be

living in a fool’s paradise. Or simply in a state of denial.” [Miami Herald, 5/3/11]

Current State of Investigation

As of May 2011, the Miami Herald revealed that “ it’s hard to know where the investigation of

Rivera stands with the FDLE, Miami-Dade Police public corruption unit and State Attorney

Katherine Fernandez Rundle. They’re looking hard at Rivera’s campaign-related and personal

finances from the past several years, which are as complex and convoluted as a credit default

swap.” [Miami Herald, 5/3/11]

Rivera Continues to Change His Story on USAID

According to the Miami Herald,” with every new revelation about his finances and work history,

Rivera has changed his story. While he was a state representative (2002-2010), Rivera listed the

U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) as a source of income. But when The Miami

Herald checked, the agency said that it had no record of Rivera working for it. He then said he’d

worked for a subcontractor, although USAID had no record of that either. Rivera eventually

deleted USAID from his state financial disclosure.” [Miami Herald, 5/3/11]

Rivera Continues to Change His Story on Millenium

According to the Miami Herald,” with every new revelation about his finances and work history,

Rivera has changed his story.” Like USAID financial issue, “ Rivera never listed Millenium

Marketing on his state financial disclosures, but later added it when he said he’d repaid that

company — Rivera’s godmother is its president and his mother VP and secretary — a loan of

$132,000, plus interest.” [Miami Herald, 5/3/11]

“It gets curioser. It was Millenium that signed a contract with Flagler Dog Track (now Magic City

Casino) for a full-bore campaign to win voter approval for gambling in 2008. The contract

specifically called for Rivera to lead that campaign, and he spent months working on it, but claims

he was paid nothing. Really? Paid nothing for working for months running a $6-million pro-

gambling effort? Millenium, however, was paid $510,000.” [Miami Herald, 5/3/11]

Unexplained Campaign Finances

According to the Miami Herald, Rivera has unexplained campaign finance reimbursements.

“According to an AP investigation, Rivera paid himself more than $60,000 in unexplained

campaign expenses. During his tenure as chairman of the Miami-Dade Republican Party, a

marketing and media consultant named Esther Nuhfer, who is close to Rivera and has worked on

22

his various campaigns, received $150,000 from the local GOP for work that was never fully

accounted for. And Rivera paid Nuhfer $250,000, according to The Miami Herald, for her work on

Rivera’s state Senate campaign, which he later dropped in favor of running for Congress. In all,

Nuhfer was paid about $817,000 for work on Rivera’s campaigns. Investigators are following the

money to see if any of it wound up in Rivera’s pocket. He says it didn’t.” [Miami Herald, 5/3/11]

Rivera did not Report Details on more than $60,000 in Campaign Reimbursements to

Himself

During his eight years in the Florida Legislature, Rivera, while serving as his own campaign

treasurer, did not report any details for more than $60,000 of the roughly $160,000 in expenses for

which he reimbursed himself. Florida law requires reimbursements to candidates to be report with

details including the name of the person or business the candidate paid. [The Associated Press,

1/28/11]

Miami Herald Says Investigation Is Limiting Rivera’s Effectiveness

According to the Miami Herald, the investigations are “ limiting Rivera’s effectiveness in

Washington. House Majority Leader Eric Cantor is keeping Rivera at arm’s length. House Speaker

John Boehner says he’s “waiting to see how this plays out.” [Miami Herald, 5/3/11]

Rivera Aide Possibly Subpoenaed in Criminal Probe

In January 2011, the Miami Herald reported that Congressman David Rivera’s longtime aide, Alina

Garcia, was subpoenaed in a criminal investigation tied to the lawmaker’s financial relationship with a

dog track. The paper claimed to have “two sources familiar with the subpoena.” [Miami Herald, 1/25/11]

Note: After the paper reported on the subpoena, Garcia responded to requests for comment in an email

and claimed the report was, "false. No subpoena."

Rivera Campaign Said he was not Aware of Any FDLE Involvement

In January 2011, Rivera’s campaign stated that he “has not personally become aware of any involvement

by FDLE (Florida Department of Law Enforcement), as he has not been contacted by them. He has only

read media reports.” [msnbc.com, 1/27/11]

GOP Leadership Questioned for Standing by Rivera

In articles published in both Politico and Washington Monthly, the GOP leadership was questioned for

refusing to publically admonish Rivera or separate him from the party.

“Cantor, meanwhile, has promised a “zero-tolerance policy” for GOP lawmakers caught up in the

scandals. But so far, the Virginia Republican has refused to comment on the Rivera case, drawing

criticisms of hypocrisy from the Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee,” wrote Politico.

[Washington Monthly, 1/25/11; Politico, 1/25/11]

23

Politico Reported That GOP Already Looking for Rivera’s Replacements

In light of the ethics scandals surrounding Rivera, Politico reported that “GOP insiders already are

drawing contingency plans for a replacement should the freshman lawmaker resign or be forced to step

aside, according to multiple Republican sources.” [Politico, 1/25/11]

Boehner Addresses Rivera Ethics

The first time Boehner spoke out regarding Rivera’s ethics issues, he claimed to be waiting to see how the

allegations were resolved.

“As I understand the allegations against Mr. Rivera they don't involve any of his congressional service,”

Boehner said Wednesday. “These are activities that took place before he was elected. and I think we're

waiting to see how this plays out.” [Politico, 1/26/11]

Boehner Reiterated He Will Wait to See How This Plays Out

In January 2011, Boehner said that “"As I understand the allegations against Mr. Rivera, they don't

involve any of his congressional service…These were activities that took place before he was

elected. And I think we're waiting to see how this plays out." [St. Petersburg Times, 01/27/2011]

Sessions on Rivera

In March 2011, Sessions expressed joy that Rivera had joined the Florida delegation.

He said that “"David Rivera is a brand new member of our delegation from Miami who is doing a very

good job in his duties up here…He's very active as a member of his freshman class. He's getting his job

done and I think that he's seen in a very favorable light." [The Hill, 3/2/2011]

Cantor Concerned About Rivera and Avoided Him During Fundraiser in Miami

In February 2011, Cantor avoided making contact with Rivera during a visit to Miami

House Majority Leader Eric Cantor said he was “Very Concerned” about the Rivera Probe.

In February 2011, Cantor said, “There are ongoing investigations in Florida involving

Congressman Rivera, and we are respectful of those investigations […] I’m obviously very

concerned about the reports surrounding those investigations, but we’ll wait to see the results of

them.” [The Hill, 2/28/11]

House Majority Leader Eric Cantor Previously Avoided Rivera While in Miami. “House

Majority Leader Eric Cantor avoided making contact with Florida Rep. David Rivera during a

visit to Miami last weekend and instructed aides not to reach out to the first-term congressman

[…] ‘Given the recent reports and the ongoing investigation in Florida, Eric is concerned and

believes that this was the appropriate way to handle this situation,’” said Cantor’s spokesperson.

[Politico, 2/25/11]

24

Last Summer Cantor Pledged Zero-Tolerance. Republican Whip Eric Cantor said, “I think that

as Republicans emerge as a new governing majority, it is incumbent upon us to institute a zero-

tolerance policy — that we understand there are reasons for our being fired in '06 and '08 […] We

cannot tolerate any ethics violations or behavior in terms of compromising the ethics that the

people expect us to have as their representatives.” [YouTube, uploaded 8/10/10]

David Rivera Was Originally Left Off the Invite List For The Miami Fundraiser. “It looks

like every Republican U.S. Rep. from Florida is sponsoring an upcoming Miami fundraising

dinner featuring Majority Leader Eric Cantor. Except for one: Miami Rep. David Rivera, who's

snarled in a legal investigation over his ties to a $500,000 dog track contract, his changing

statements, and his questionable federal and state financial disclosure forms (each of which he

changed).” [Miami Herald, 7/18/11]

Now, David Rivera Has Been Invited to the NRCC Fundraiser. “It seems the National

Republican Congressional Committee inadvertently left Miami Rep. David Rivera off its list of

congressional Florida Republicans sponsoring a dinner for House Republican leader Eric Cantor.

Rivera was the only one of the 19 Republicans who didn't make the first send. He's also the only

one under investigation for his ties to a secret $500,000 dog track contract.” [Miami Herald,

7/19/11]

Republican Attorney Wanted Rivera to Explain or Step Down

In January 2011, Thomas Spencer, a co-counsel for George W. Bush during the 2000 recount and

prominent Republican attorney in Rivera’s district, called for him to either fully explain himself or “step

down.” In a letter to the Miami Herald, Spencer said Rivera needs to, “fully and completely, without

delay or obfuscation, disgorge and fully explain every single relevant fact and document- or he needs to

step down.” Spencer planned to call on top Republicans to ask Rivera to release information. [The Miami

Herald, 1/28/11]

Hired Former Lobbyist to Work on Official Staff

In March 2011, the Center for Responsive Politics released a database that showed Rivera hired Steve

Vermillion to be his chief of staff. According to the CRP, Vermillion had previously lobbied for Kemp

Partners. [Center for Responsive Politics, accessed 3/8/11]

Headline: Lobbyist connected to Rivera got major contract

In February 2011, the Associated Press headline read, “Lobbyist connected to Rivera got major contract.”

When Rivera was chairman of the Miami-Dade GOP, the Republican party made record payments with

little explanation to a political consultant with whom he had close ties. [Associated Press, 2/07/11]

Obtained $100,000 to Employ Floridians Rebuilding Haiti but most went to Company’s Founder

Rivera earmarked $100,000 in Florida’s 2010 budget for the non-profit company United for a Sustainable

America to employee Floridians while rebuilding Haiti with green homes. In February 2011, the St.

Petersburg Times reported that $48,000 went to a salary for the company’s founder and three colleagues

25

while another $39,000 went to green energy conferences they run. Only $12,000 was used to upgrade a

Haitian orphanage and $1,000 was spent on a documentary of the humanitarian effort. [St. Petersburg

Times, 2/20/11]

Cleared of Wrongdoing by FEC in Campaign Finance Probe

In May 2011, according to the Associated Press, the Federal Election Committee “cleared U.S. Rep.

David Rivera following an investigation into whether he improperly helped an independent group produce

an attack against his opponent in last year’s election. The commission says it found ‘no reason to believe’

Rivera violated federal campaign finance laws.”

“Supporters of Rivera’s rival, Democrat Joe Garcia, alleged the independent committee Voters Response

coordinated fliers against Garcia with Rivera’s then-spokeswoman Sarah Bascom.”

Despite the FEC’s findings, the Associated Press reported that “a separate state investigation into Rivera’s

finances is ongoing.” [Associated Press, 05/20/2011]

Cleared of FEC Charges

In May 2011, the FEC said that they had no reason to believe that Rivera broke campaign finance law in

2010.

According to the Miami Herald, “The investigation was prompted by a complaint filed last August by

criminal defense attorney William Barzee who alleged that Rivera’s campaign and Voters Response, a

Florida electioneering committee, worked together on the attack flyer through a Rivera spokeswoman,

Sarah Bascom.”

The Miami Herald also reported that “The committee told the FEC that it had retained Bascom to assist

with media and social networking research of state candidates, and provided the FEC with the agreement.

It said it did not discuss its congressional activities with Bascom ‘and did not compensate Bascom

Communications for any work it may have done for Mr. Rivera’s campaign.’ The group told the FEC it

didn’t know Bascom was working for Rivera’s campaign until the press called.

The FEC said the president of Bascom Communications and Rivera’s campaign manager said in sworn

affidavits that they were unaware of the Voter Response flyer. The FEC noted that Rivera’s campaign

paid Bascom $2,500 on Aug. 24 “for media consulting.” [Miami Herald, 05/17/11]

Being Investigated by Feds Regarding Casino Contract

In July 2011, the Miami Herald announced that the Feds were investigating Rivera regarding a casino

contract.

According to the Herald, “The contract also called for an additional $500,000 ‘success fee’ to Millennium

if and when slots machines won approval, records show. At the time, however, neither Rivera nor

Millennium made a claim for the fee.

26

But in recent weeks, Millennium’s officers formally requested the $500,000 success fee from the Magic

City Casino, according to Herald news partner WFOR/CBS-4. It is unclear who made the request on

behalf of the company.” [Miami Herald, 7/21/2011]

Satirized in Florida Democratic Poster for Shady Contract

In September 2011, Rivera was the target of a satirical poster published by Florida democrats that

highlighted his involvement in a “secret dog-track contract” under criminal investigation. [Miami Herald,

9/1/11]

Earns Title of one of 2011’s Most Corrupt Politicians

In September 2011, the non-profit group Citizens for Responsibility and Ethics in Washington named

Rivera among the most corrupt politicians for allegations of money laundering, unreported income and

misuse of campaign contributions.

As a Naples News reported, “Rather than refute the allegations against him, when asked about the CREW

report, Rivera’s campaign responded by pointing out CREW’s ties to Democratic politicians and left-

leaning causes.”

“Rivera is under criminal investigation by the FBI, the Internal Revenue Service, the Florida Department

of Law Enforcement, the Miami-Dade Police public corruption unit and the Miami-Dade State Attorney’s

Office.” Despite this setback, Rivera continues to vow that he will uphold his legislative agenda for his

constituents. [Naples News, 9/21/11]

Rivera Included on CREW’s “Most Corrupt” List

In October 2011, Rivera was included on the Citizens for Responsibility and Ethics in Washington’s

“Most Corrupt” politician list for 2011. [The Hill, 10/24/11; The Hill, 9/20/11; Miami New Times, 9/20/11]

Foreign Policy Issues – Iraq, Afghanistan, Iran, North Korea

Wanted to Contain and Prevent Iranian Expansion in Western Hemisphere

In February 2012, Rivera said he wanted to contain and prevent Iranian expansion into the Western

Hemisphere.

Rivera said, “Throughout the last three years we have continued to watch Iran expand its cooperation with

State Sponsors of Terrorism and criminal organizations in our own backyard while, I believe, the Obama

Administration has stood idly as a spectator. Chairman Ros-Lehtinen so eloquently stated that

Ahmadinejad’s Tour of Tyrants to Cuba was his fifth visit to the region since 2007. I believe this shows

Iran’s intentions of working with anti-American regimes to continue undermining the interests of the

United States. This demonstrates how important it is for the Obama Administration to work with

Congress to develop a range of policy options to contain and prevent Iran’s continued expansion into the

27

region. This should include sanctions and law enforcement indictments against anyone seeking out

economic and other arrangements with Iran.” [Rivera Press Release, 2/10/12]

Called for Return of UN Money

In February 2011, on the House floor, Rivera called for the return of $179 million dollars in US funding

from the United Nations. “We pay most of the costs of U.N. peacekeeping operations, we pay for most of

its security costs, and now the Obama administration refuses to let the United Nations pay us back.” He

also cited the Human Rights Commission as a corrupt body which hides the human rights violations of

some of its members. [Rivera Floor Remarks on H.R. 519, 2/9/11]

Rivera’s Called China an “Enemy of Democracy”

In October 2011, despite new Pentagon reports that China’s military will not achieve full preparedness

until 2020 and even then will be relevant only regionally, Rivera said in a hearing on Taiwan, “I know

some folks like to sugarcoat the terms in describing China as a rival or competitor but the fact is

Communist China is an enemy of democracy.” [The News, 10/11/11]

Gay and Lesbian Issues

Gun Issues

Health Care Issues

Washington Post Week In Review Highlighted Protest Outside Rivera’s Office

In June 2011, the Washington Post Week in Review highlighted protestors outside Rivera’s office asking

him to join in their support of the Medicare program.

The post reported that “From left, Nakita Tiyade, Dave Patlak, Joe Miller and Richard Coller protest in

front of U.S. Rep. David Rivera's (R-FLa.) office, asking him to join in their support of the Medicare

program in Miami. They say Rivera has joined other House Republicans that have voted for a plan to end

Medicare and impose cuts to seniors' health care benefits.” [Washington Post, 06/29/2011]

Immigration and Border Issues

Criticized in Editorial for Proposed Adjustments to Cuban Readjustment Act

In March 2012, an editorial appeared in the Miami Herald criticizing Rivera’s proposal to adjust the

Cuban Refugee Adjustment Act.

28

“A current proposal by Rep. David Rivera to tinker with the CRAA as to coerce those who have recently

arrived from Cuba into behaving like political refugees by threatening to revoke their residency in the

United States should they return to the island to visit their families...

“But since these “refugees” were never required to declare themselves to be in need of asylum to stay in

the United States and since they are obviously willing and able to return to Cuba, this move by Rivera has

an entirely fictional basis. But the consequences of his efforts will be real: Put a chill on family travel to

Cuba as part of the war he has long waged against the reunification of the Cuban family...

“If Rivera believes that migrants from Cuba are no longer conforming to what is expected of political

refugees, then he should have the political fortitude to advocate for the elimination of the special

migratory status of Cubans, that is, repeal the CRAA instead of tinkering with it...[The Miami Herald, 3/26/12]

Introduced Less Comprehensive Version of DREAM Act

In March 2012, Rivera introduced the STARS Act, a bill that would provide residency options for

undocumented immigrants.

According to politic356.com, “the STARS Act is a smaller DREAM Act and doesn’t offer the military

option, but Rivera offers that separately in the Adjusted Residency for Military Service Act. The STARS

Act does nothing to help undocumented young people who may have already earned undergraduate and

graduate degrees. These DREAM eligible adults who have completed degrees and who have often been

working in jobs below their skill level would not be able to get on the path toward legalization with the

STARS Act. And degree holding DREAMers are people who are most likely to contribute to the economy

right away be working in legitimate jobs.” [politic365.com, 3/23/12]

Israel

Labor and Working Family Issues Rivera Blamed Unemployment on Obama

In January 2012, “David Rivera, R-Miami, countered that unemployment remains higher than when

Obama took office” although over three million jobs have been created in the last 22 months.

“Unfortunately, according to the president and Democrats in the Senate, the solution to these problems is

not only more government participation in the private sector, but more government spending as a means

to help an ailing economy," Rivera said. [Sunshine State News, 1/25/12]

Supported Columbia Free Trade Agreement

In January 2011, Rivera spoke on the House Floor in support of a free trade agreement with Colombia. He

said, “Colombia is America's fourth-largest trading partner in Latin America, and the U.S. Department of

Commerce estimates that 9,000 American companies trade with Colombia…” Rivera also noted that 90

29

percent of Colombian goods enter the U.S. duty free while American companies still pay tariffs for U.S.

goods to enter Colombia. [Rivera Floor Statement, US House of Representatives, 1/07/11]

Rivera’s Miami Office Was Scene of Protest in Support of Obama’s Jobs Bill

In October 2011, a group of protestors gathered outside Rivera’s district offices to urge him to pass

Obama’s jobs bill. Though Rivera was not in the office at the time, he released a statement later that said

the Obama jobs bill focuses “more on scoring political points than on real long-term reforms to improve

our nation’s economy. […] While I oppose any tax increases, I am prepared to support legislation we

agree on to create jobs.” [CBS Miami, 10/7/11]

Other Social Issues

Rivera Said Obama Needs to Lead by Example

In January 2012, Rivera said Obama needs to lead by example if he discusses being hardworking and

responsible.

“If the President is going to speak on the importance of being hardworking and responsible, he has to lead

by example." [Miami Herald, 1/24/12]

Personal Finance Issues

Had Estimated Net Worth of $8,000

In December 2011, Broward Palm Beach New Times reported that Rivera had an estimated net worth of

$8,000. [Broward Palm Beach New Times, 1/26/12]

Senior Issues

Rivera Received Award From RetireSafe

In November 2011, Rivera posted On Facebook pictures noting that “RetireSafe Honors [Congressman]

Rivera for Standing Up for Seniors.” [David Rivera Facebook, 11/9/11]

Stem Cells

Tax Issues

Tea Party

30

Transportation Issues

Women’s Issues

Rivera was a co-sponsor of H.R. 374, the Life at Conception Act

On July 7, 2011, Rivera became a co-sponsor of the Life at Conception Act. According to the Library of

Congress, the Life at Conception Act “declares that the right to life guaranteed by the Constitution is

vested in each human being beginning at the moment of fertilization, cloning, or other moment at which

an individual comes into being.” [Library of Congress, accessed 11/10/11]