Michigan State Rep. Jewell Jones (D-Inkster) reported using campaign money at a gentlemen’s club, which he argued was a “constituent meeting.”
The lawmaker’s tab totaled $221 at the Pantheion Club in Dearborn which he referred to as a meeting to discuss “potential economic projects,” The Detroit News reported.
Jones described the strip club as a “lounge” and noted that he was not aware of the nature of the establishment in an interview with The Detroit News.
“We have (to) meet people where they’re at some times ... #HOLLA,” Jones said in a text after the interview.
The Detroit News also hilariously reported that Jones said the “lounge” had “great lamb chops.”
This is not the first time the Democratic legislator has been in hot water for spending, however.
His campaign finance records indicate he spent $6,400 at restaurants or lounges for “meetings” just in the first seven months of 2021 — including singular dinner transactions for $696 and $514.
Though state officials often put campaign money towards meeting expenses at restaurants or bars, Simon Schuster, executive director of the nonprofit Michigan Campaign Finance Network, said that Jones’ Pantheion expendature “truly pushes the limit of credulity.”
Not only has Jones’ excessive campaign spending been problematic but his recent alleged drunk driving episode has also received headlines.
Michigan State Police reports indicate Jones drove into a ditch after recklessly swerving on the road with a blood alcohol content at 0.19 — 0.11 above the legal limit. After struggling with the officers, he reportedly told them he would call the governor and that he had oversight of the State Police budget.
Though he will be in court next month for the drunk driving charges, it is yet to be seen if he will be reprimanded for his gentlemen’s club "constituent meeting."