Freshman Sen. Ruben Gallego, who has been the subject of speculation regarding a potential 2028 presidential bid, is facing scrutiny over the use of his campaign and political action committee (PAC) funds. Federal Election Commission (FEC) records indicate that campaign money was spent on family travel, luxury outings, and event tickets, prompting accusations of using campaign accounts as a personal slush fund.
Gallego’s office has maintained that the expenditures were tied to political events and fundraisers, even when covering travel and accommodation costs for his family. In 2023, Gallego and former Rep. Eric Swalwell utilized a joint campaign account, the “Swallego Victory Fund,” to attend Super Bowl LVII in Arizona. This event included a fundraiser that generated over $56,000, with expenditures exceeding $37,000 for tickets and meals. A spokesperson stated that the Super Bowl tickets were bought at fair market value and that hosting fundraisers at sporting events is a common practice.
The “Swallego Victory Fund” ceased fundraising shortly after the Super Bowl event. Gallego, a father of three, launched his Senate campaign approximately three weeks before the fund was established.
Childcare Expenses and FEC Regulations
Gallego also utilized campaign funds for childcare expenses, totaling approximately $18,000 since 2019. This included a payment to his mother-in-law for babysitting services. Gallego defended this spending, citing FEC guidelines that permit reimbursement for childcare. He stated, “There is a simple reason: we want Congress to look like America. Not just people without children, those with grown children, or those from wealthy backgrounds.” He further noted his position as one of the less wealthy members of Congress and the challenges of balancing childcare, travel, and scheduling.
FEC rules allow for campaign funds to be used for childcare and travel if not for personal use. For leadership PACs, such as Gallego's JUNTOS PAC, the rules are reportedly more flexible, lacking a specific "personal use" provision.
Family Travel and PAC Retreats
Records also show family trips to Disney World and Disneyland that were reportedly linked to PAC retreats and political activities, including a retreat organized by Rep. Lou Correa’s PAC. The Disneyland trip alone incurred nearly $1,500 in accommodation costs, excluding flights. Additionally, a trip to Miami for his wife’s birthday involved a hotel stay costing over $9,000 from his PAC. Gallego’s team asserted this trip included nine political events over President’s Day weekend, raising more than $50,000.
During a trip to Chicago’s Little Village, where Gallego had previously spoken out against federal immigration enforcement, accommodations for him and his family cost his PAC close to $1,500. The senator’s recent travel to South Carolina, a key state in the Democratic presidential calendar, has also drawn attention amid his potential 2028 aspirations.
Other political figures have also had campaign or party funds cover attendance at major events. For instance, former President Trump had the Republican National Committee cover costs for his World Series game attendance. In contrast, fellow Arizona Sen. Mark Kelly paid for his own Super Bowl LVII ticket.