Benghazi chairman drops out of fundraiser after complaints

Rep. Trey Gowdy (R) won’t appear at a Republican Party of Virginia fundraiser after learning that the event would highlight his role as the chairman of the House select committee investigating the 2012 Benghazi attacks.

A National Review report on Monday said Gowdy would appear at a March 19 fundraiser titled “Beyond Benghazi,” featuring a film screening and an interview with the South Carolina lawmaker.

“The chairman was unaware that organizers of this event intended to feature or even mention Benghazi. He has not raised money using Benghazi, and will not speak about Benghazi at fundraising events. Having been made aware of this group’s plan, he no longer will be participating in the event,” panel spokesman Jamal Ware said in a statement.

Earlier on Monday, Rep. Elijah Cummings (Md.), the panel’s top Democrat, said the panel had “given up any pretense of a legitimate investigation.”

“From issuing a completely unnecessary subpoena to Secretary Clinton to Republican fundraising off of the tragedy in Benghazi, it appears that the Select Committee has given up any pretense of a legitimate investigation, and now has just become a surrogate for the Republican National Committee,” he said in a statement.

“This taxpayer-funded committee should focus on an investigation that ensures reforms are implemented to improve the safety and security of our officials serving overseas,” Cummings added.

The Virginia GOP wanted attendees to pay $75 for a ticket to the event or $5,000 to serve as a fundraiser co-chair.