Feds Investigating Phony Mailers Targeting Rep. Lawler

The Department of Justice has confirmed to the campaign of Rep. Mike Lawler that the FBI is investigating a series of mailers falsely accusing the Republican congressman of supporting amnesty for illegal immigrants. Lawler, who is seeking re-election in New York's 17th Congressional District, called the mailers an illegal "voter suppression effort" designed to mislead constituents in the final weeks before the midterm elections.

The mailers, which claim to be paid for by the "American Forge Coalition," depict a grim image of Lawler alongside shadowy figures and bear the headline, "Mike Lawler Put Us at Risk." The text further asserts, "Congressman Mike Lawler supported letting criminals escape justice after illegally entering our nation."

However, Lawler's campaign stated that the Federal Election Commission has no record of the "American Forge Coalition." Campaign finance law prohibits unregistered groups from sending out election flyers. Lawler has consistently advocated for increased border security and opposed New York's sanctuary policies, making his stance on immigration a cornerstone of his platform.

The phone number listed on the flyer led directly to one of Lawler's field offices. Lawler urged his Democratic opponent, Cait Conley, who previously headed cybersecurity for the Department of Homeland Security, to condemn the mailers. A spokesperson for Conley's campaign declined to comment.

House Speaker Mike Johnson, who appeared alongside Lawler at a press conference Tuesday in Rockland County, reaffirmed his support for the congressman. Johnson highlighted Lawler's role in the Republican majority in the House and praised his advocacy for tax deductions. Lawler is currently seeking his third term in the competitive 17th Congressional District.