FBI Probed Former Labor Secretary Solis Involvement In Questionable Fundraising Event For Obama

Hilda Solis

The FBI investigated Solis alleged involvement in a fundraising event for Obama in 2012.

By H. Nelson Goodson

February 3, 2014

Los Angles, California - Former Secretary of Labor, Hilda Solis apparently faced a federal probe by the FBI for her alleged involvement in a fundraising event for Obama's re-election bid, the Los Angeles Times (LAT) reported. Solis had filed a federal financial disclosure showing that she owed the Sidley Austin law firm about $50K to 100K for "legal advice."

The FBI was looking into whether Solis had solicited funds for Obama's re-election bid in 2012. Solis was involved in a March 2012 fundraising event at La Fonda in Los Angeles for Obama, according to LAT.

Solis has denied any wrongdoing during the Obama funding event.

The Hatch Act prohibits any presidential Cabinate member to solicit funds for a candidate. Federal law doesn't prevent Cabinet members from speaking or attending fundraising events.

The FBI investigation is ongoing and the feds are not releasing any information whether Solis solicited any funds for Obama's re-election bid.

Currently, Solis is a viable candidate for Los Angeles County Supervisor in the 1st District. Incumbent 1st District County  Supervisor Gloria Molina is prevented from seeking another term due to term limits.

Solis served as  U.S. Secretary of Labor from 2009  to 2013 and became the first Latina to serve in a Presidential Cabinet under President Obama. Solis formerly represented the 32nd Congressional District in California from 2001 to 2009.