Lawmakers’ Legal Fees Paid with Campaign Funds

Illinois State Sen. Michael Hastings and Reps. Robert ‘Bob’ Rita and Thaddeus Jones used campaign finance funds to cover their attorneys’ fees in various legal matters last year, according to recent campaign reports.

Hastings’ committee spent about $78,000 on attorneys’ fees, while Rita’s committee spent around $60,000. Jones’ committee spent $8,500 on legal fees.

Rita’s Lawsuit

Rita filed a federal lawsuit against Tinley Park, Orland Township, and village and township officials in 2023, alleging his constitutional rights were denied when he was blocked from participating in community events. He voluntarily dismissed the case in June.

Rita’s lawsuit claimed his right to free speech and due process were violated. However, U.S. District Court Judge Manish Shah said Rita wasn’t barred from participating in public events, just not as an official representative.

Hastings’ Ongoing Lawsuits

Hastings is still embroiled in two lawsuits, one against an opponent in his 2024 reelection campaign and another against Republican operatives he accused of sending obscene text messages ahead of the 2022 election.

It’s worth noting that Hastings’ divorce proceedings were unsealed in 2022, revealing some pretty ugly allegations against him. But hey, that’s a whole other story.