Additional Coverage:
- GOP Rep. Andy Ogles of Tennessee says FBI took his cellphone in campaign finance probe (newsbreak.com)
FRANKLIN, Tenn. — U.S. Representative Andy Ogles, a Tennessee Republican, reported that the FBI seized his cellphone last week as part of a probe into inconsistencies in his campaign finance reports.
Ogles, who aligns with the conservative Freedom Caucus and recently secured a primary election victory, announced his cooperation with the investigation on the social media platform X. This development followed his triumphant win bolstered by an endorsement from ex-President Donald Trump.
Ogles addressed the scrutiny of his campaign’s initial financial declarations which had been previously highlighted by various reports. At issue was an adjustment in his filings where a reported $320,000 loan to his 2022 campaign was later rectified to show only a $20,000 loan. Ogles attributed the discrepancy to a misunderstanding, claiming he intended to pledge rather than directly loan the larger amount.
This case of financial ambiguity has drawn criticism, notably from the Campaign Legal Center (CLC), which lodged a January ethics complaint against Ogles. The group questioned his capability to fund the large loan, pointing out his financial disclosures showed no bank accounts or similar assets that would support such a transaction. The complaint stressed the need for Ogles to clarify these financial disclosures to maintain public trust.
Amid these challenges, Ogles has remained a polarizing figure in his district. In the latest primaries, he defeated Nashville Metro Councilmember Courtney Johnston, who criticized him as ineffective and scandal-ridden. Despite controversies, such as past resistance to supporting Kevin McCarthy’s bid for House Speaker and inconsistencies in his educational qualifications, Ogles has maintained his political stance, including introducing articles to impeach current administration leaders.
Looking forward, Ogles will face Democratic candidate Maryam Abolfazli in the upcoming November election. Abolfazli has voiced concerns over Ogles’ pattern of scandals, arguing it undermines the integrity of their district. Despite the backlash, Ogles, who also served as the mayor of Maury County, continues to challenge the current administration, reflecting his deeply rooted political and ideological positions.
The FBI, adhering to Justice Department guidelines, has neither confirmed nor denied any ongoing investigations. The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Tennessee also declined to comment on the matter.