Democrat Senator Accuses GOP Colleague of Spying on Cars
Sen. Jacky Rosen (D-Nevada) has accused Sen. Bernie Moreno (R-Ohio) of "creepily" spying on congressional vehicles to support his argument on driving safety legislation.
Details of the Accusation
Rosen tweeted on Wednesday, suggesting that instead of following senators to note their car VINs, Moreno should focus on more productive activities.
“Instead of @berniemoreno creepily following us to the cars we use to get to work in the Capitol and writing down their VIN numbers, I’d suggest he use his time in more productive ways.”
Background of the Controversy
The accusation came after a tense Senate Commerce Committee hearing. Moreno admitted to collecting vehicle identification numbers from Democratic senators' cars to expose what he called the party’s “hypocrisy” regarding safety technology.
Moreno stated he obtained VINs to show that the senators driving the vehicles lacked the advanced driver-assistance features they advocate for federal employee vehicles.
Exchange During the Hearing
“I object to you stalking my car and my staff to find the VIN numbers to present to this committee,” Rosen said during the hearing.
Moreno responded,
“It’s visible from the outside of the car.”
VINs are usually visible through the front windshield.
Summary
This dispute highlights tensions in the Senate over driving safety policies and the methods used by members to challenge opponents.
Author’s summary: Senator Jacky Rosen criticized Sen. Bernie Moreno for observing vehicles to collect VINs during a Senate hearing, spotlighting a clash over driving safety mandates.