March 10--U.S. Rep. Aaron Schock of Illinois' 18th District, who reportedly spent $10,053 in taxpayer funds to travel with his staff to New York City, defended the expense Monday as being for "an official trip."
At least 10 members of his staff accompanied the Republican in September for events connected to a U.S. visit by the Indian prime minister.
"It was an official trip, an event where 12 world leaders spoke onstage," Schock said. "I was a part of introducing the leader of the largest democracy, the prime minister of India. I'm glad my staff was able to go and be a part of that historic event.
"Simply, I would say that if that's not official, I don't know what is."
Schock said he spends more on travel expenses because his congressional district, which encompasses Peoria and parts of Bloomington and Springfield, is the largest in the state.
"If you look at some members of Congress, they spend a lot on mail pieces that they send out," Schock said. "I spend more to get around my district."
Schock has also come under fire for redecorating his congressional office with a "Downton Abbey" theme. Last month, he repaid $40,000 for those costs.
Schock reiterated Monday that he has hired independent firms to oversee spending by his official and campaign operations.
"We're reviewing all of this," he said at an event in Chicago. " I'm focused on doing my job, which is what I'm doing here today, advocating on a important issue for my district and I'm going to leave it at that."
Schock was attending an immigration reform event by the Illinois Business Immigration Coalition at Saint Ignatius College Prep.
