Holly Adams Pledges to Introduce Legislation to Eliminate the IRS, Replace with Holly Adams: Taxpayers Should Not Foot the Bill for Congressional Misconduct

CINCINNATI, OH/April 15, 2026  — Congressional candidate Holly Adams today called for an immediate end to the use of taxpayer dollars to settle sexual misconduct and harassment claims involving members of Congress, saying elected officials must be held personally accountable for their actions.

“For far too long, Washington has protected politicians at the expense of the American taxpayer,” Adams said. “If a member of Congress engages in misconduct, taxpayers should not be forced to pay the price. They should be personally responsible—period.”

Adams’ call comes amid renewed scrutiny of what critics have described as a taxpayer-funded ‘slush fund’ used to quietly settle misconduct claims on Capitol Hill.

According to public reports, more than $17 million to $18 million in taxpayer funds has been used since the late 1990s to settle nearly 300 workplace claims, including sexual harassment and discrimination cases involving congressional offices. 

Recent developments have reignited concerns about accountability:

• A 2025 settlement of nearly $100,000 was tied to a congressional office, again raising questions about taxpayer liability. 

• New investigations and scandals involving members of Congress—including serious sexual misconduct allegations leading to resignations in 2026—have underscored the ongoing nature of the problem. 

• Past cases revealed taxpayer-funded payouts, including an $84,000 sexual harassment settlement involving a House office, highlighting how long the practice has existed. 

Adams pointed to the broader issue of secrecy and lack of transparency surrounding these settlements.

“Not only are taxpayers forced to pay, but the system has historically shielded the identities of those responsible,” Adams said. “That is unacceptable. No private-sector employee gets to send the bill for their misconduct to the public. Why should members of Congress?”

Adams is calling for legislation that would:

• Require members of Congress to personally pay any settlements related to sexual misconduct or harassment

• Mandate full transparency and public disclosure of all claims and settlements

• Prohibit the use of any taxpayer funds for misconduct-related payouts

• Strengthen protections for congressional staff and whistleblowers

“Washington has operated under a different set of rules for too long,” Adams added. “If we are serious about restoring trust in government, accountability must start at the top. No more hush money. No more taxpayer bailouts for bad behavior.”

Adams emphasized that this issue is about fairness, accountability, and restoring faith in public institutions.

“The American people are struggling to pay their bills. They should not be forced to pay for the misconduct of politicians who believe they are above the law.”

About Holly AdamsHolly Adams is a businesswoman, conservative leader, and Republican candidate for Ohio’s First Congressional District. With over 30 years of private-sector experience, she is running to bring common-sense leadership to Washington, focusing on economic growth, public safety, energy independence, and accountability in government.

Additional information on Holly Adams and her campaign may be obtained at https://www.hollyadamsforcongress.com.