Two US senators from Tennessee, Marsha Blackburn and Bill Hagerty, are under investigation for allegedly violating Senate conflict of interest rules by supporting a measure that allows them to sue the government for millions after being targeted by the FBI in a 2021 phone probe.
A spending bill ending the federal government shutdown included a provision allowing eight US senators to claim taxpayer-funded compensation if their personal data was obtained without their knowledge.
Both Blackburn and Hagerty voted for the package, which drew criticism that it was self-serving.
Blackburn initially planned to sue under the funding law but later clarified she does not intend to seek monetary damages.
US Representative John Rose, Blackburn’s gubernatorial rival, filed a bill to reverse the provision, calling it “taxpayer-funded payout.”
Hagerty stated he does not plan to sue the government and wants accountability for those involved in the FBI probe.
Source: https://eu.tennessean.com/story/news/politics/2025/11/14/ethics-complaint-accuses-blackburn-hagerty-seeking-financial-gain/87255219007