A conservative watchdog group has filed a federal election complaint alleging that Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (D-N.Y.) improperly used campaign funds to pay a psychiatrist. The National Legal and Policy Center (NLPC) submitted the complaint to the Federal Election Commission (FEC) and the Office of Congressional Conduct (OCC) on March 27, 2025, claiming the funds were misreported as 'leadership training and consulting.'
Core Facts and Immediate Action
The complaint alleges that $18,725 in campaign funds were paid to Dr. Brian Boyle, an interventional psychiatrist in Brookline, Massachusetts, for services reported as 'leadership training and consulting' in March, May, and October 2025. The NLPC argues these payments were instead for personal psychiatric services, either for Ocasio-Cortez or her campaign staff. The group requests an investigation and potential penalties.
Deeper Dive and Context
The Allegations
The NLPC's complaint, filed by counsel Paul Kamenar, states that the payments were misreported and that campaign funds should not be used for personal expenses. Kamenar told One America News Network that if Ocasio-Cortez needed psychiatric care, she should pay for it herself, not with campaign donations. The complaint notes that Dr. Boyle does not advertise leadership training or consulting services.
Ocasio-Cortez's Response
Ocasio-Cortez's office has not yet responded to requests for comment. The campaign has not provided details on what the 'leadership training' entailed.
Legal and Political Implications
The FEC and OCC have not yet commented on whether they will investigate the complaint. If substantiated, misuse of campaign funds could result in fines or other disciplinary actions. The complaint comes amid broader scrutiny of campaign finance practices in Congress.
Background on Dr. Brian Boyle
Dr. Boyle specializes in treating depression, PTSD, and anxiety, including through ketamine therapy. His practice does not list leadership training or consulting among its services.