Sunday Read: Hero of the ‘Day’: Rep. Jamie Raskin
National Whistleblower Day 2024 is shaping up to be one of the best ever. National Whistleblower Center (NWC) continues to add to the July 30th agenda on Capitol Hill, which already features addresses from Senators Chuck Grassley (R-IA) and Sen. Ron Wyden (D-OR) and Hampton Dellinger, the Special Counsel at the U.S. Office of Special Counsel (OSC).
NWC is taking the event to even greater heights with the addition of another marquee speaker, Rep. Jamie Raskin (D-MD).
In this Sunday Read, and ahead of his National Whistleblower Day appearance, we’ll explore his impact in the whistleblower arena and how his presence will further elevate the 11th annual National Whistleblower Day.
Maryland Rep. Jamie Raskin
Rep. Jamie Raskin is a strong advocate for protecting whistleblowers. He has consistently supported legislation that provides robust protections for individuals who expose waste, fraud, and abuse.
A prime example occurred during the COVID-19 pandemic, when Raskin, along with Former Rep. Jackie Speier (D-CA) and Sen. Elizabeth Warren (D-MA), introduced the COVID-19 Whistleblower Protection Act. This legislation aimed to establish strong protections for employees of entities receiving federal COVID-19 relief funds, ensuring that those who report misuse of funds are shielded from retaliation.
Whistleblower Network News previously reported how the Act would provide administrative relief through the Department of Labor and allow whistleblowers to access jury trials if necessary. It also included measures to protect whistleblower confidentiality and prevent gag orders. The bill was reintroduced to Congress in February 2021, but did not receive a vote. It could be revived, particularly if more reports of fraud and abuse of COVID relief funds are uncovered.
“We cannot afford to have these precious relief dollars swept up by scammers, conmen, and cheats,” Raskin said. “We must give real protection to whistleblowers who are brave enough to speak out when they see our tax dollars being misused or stolen.”
In addition to proposing and supporting legislation, Rep. Raskin has publicly fought to ensure the integrity of whistleblowing. On July 12, 2023, as Ranking Member of the Committee on Oversight and Accountability, Raskin and Rep. Dan Goldman (D-NY) sent a letter to Chairman James Comer calling for an investigation into whether Committee Republicans — in an attempt to indict President Biden — may have relied on false statements or misinformation provided by Luft.
Two days earlier, the U.S. Attorney’s office unsealed an eight-count indictment reporting that Luft, a dual U.S.-Israeli citizen, allegedly evaded FARA registration while working to advance the interests of China in the U.S. and sought to broker the illicit sales of Chinese-manufactured Weapons and Iranian oil to China.
Members of the Committee on Oversight and Accountability sent a letter to Chairman Comer, calling out the reliability of information from Luft, who jumped bail while awaiting extradition to the U.S.
“It appears as if Mr. Luft sought ‘whistleblower’ status from you in an effort to defend himself from criminal prosecution while a fugitive from justice,” the members wrote. “Worse yet, this latest episode also raises concerns that Mr. Luft may be manipulating your investigation not only for his own self-interest but perhaps also in furtherance of the CCP’s efforts to undermine U.S. security interests and the President of the United States. These recent revelations naturally raise broader concerns about the credibility and motivations of other purported whistleblowers that Congressional Republicans have relied on to support unfounded and baseless allegations.
“Sadly, the Luft episode severely undermines the credibility of the critical function of whistleblowers in this body.”
“It is so impactful when members of Congress like Mr. Raskin take action to establish stronger protection and incentives for whistleblowers” said NWC Executive Director Siri Turner. “NWC values his allyship and shared vision for truth and integrity.”
Looking to National Whistleblower Day
More speakers, including whistleblowers who have raised concerns about climate change, law enforcement and Boeing will also give remarks during National Whistleblower Day 2024.
Prior in-person speakers have included household names like Theranos whistleblower Erika Cheung, and former Enron vice president Sherron Watkins, who, in recognition for coming forward, was named one of three of Time’s “Persons of the Year” in 2002. The event has also been highlighted by appearances from government officials like SEC Chair Gary Gensler and former Secretary of Labor Marty Walsh.
“National Whistleblower Day is the ideal forum to connect with fellow whistleblower advocates while enjoying a luncheon on Capitol Hill,” Turner said. “By sharing stories, accolades and anecdotes, the day provides a measure of comfort and security for those who may want to come forward.”
Mark your calendar for July 30th. For more information on National Whistleblower Day (including how to attend) visit: https://whistleblowersblog.org/nwd/
Summertime Schooling with NWC
NWC has more hot summer nights to mark on your calendar. On August 19th, NWC will host its monthly Bar Trivia fundraiser!
The fun begins at 6 PM ET at Sudhouse DC (1340 U Street NW). Broaden your network and put your knowledge to work. Everyone will enjoy happy hour-priced food and drink, invaluable networking opportunities and the winners will go home with gift cards, books, and other fun prizes.
Get your tickets on Eventbrite today.
Support NWC
NWC fights to bolster whistleblower programs and raise awareness about the value of whistleblowers. As a 501(c)(3) non-profit our work is made possible with the support of our generous donors. Please consider donating $100 today to help us continue to educate the public about whistleblower experiences and the role whistleblowers play in putting an end to fraud and money laundering. Donors of $100 or more will receive a copy of Rules for Whistleblowers: A Handbook for Doing What’s Right.
This story was written by Justin Smulison, a professional writer, podcaster, and event host based in New York.
