FACT Urges Independent Ethics Commission to Investigate Manny Rutinel for Potential Ethics Violations

Allegations Suggest Use of Colorado State Capitol Resources for Campaign Video and Solicitation of Donations

Washington, D.C. — June 9th, 2026 — The non-partisan ethics watchdog Foundation for Accountability and Civic Trust (FACT) has filed a complaint with the Colorado Independent Ethics Commission (IEC) requesting an investigation into Colorado Assemblyman Manny Rutinel (32nd District) for potential violations of state ethics laws related to alleged political activity conducted within the Colorado State Capitol.

Assemblyman Manny Rutinel, who is currently serving in the Colorado General Assembly while also running for Colorado’s 8th Congressional District, posted a paid campaign video to Facebook on April 12, 2026, soliciting political donations and promoting his congressional campaign. The video appears to have been filmed inside the Colorado State Capitol.

Colorado ethics laws prohibit the use of government resources for campaign activity, including government buildings, staff time, and office equipment. Guidance from Colorado’s Office of Legislative Services further states that Capitol resources may not be used to produce content that is predominantly political in nature.

“These ethics rules are straightforward and exist to ensure public resources are never used for political campaigns. The advertisement in question appears to show state Capitol resources being used to produce campaign-related material and solicit political donations. When elected officials blur the line between official government resources and campaign activity, it undermines public trust and confidence in government. The Independent Ethics Commission should investigate these allegations and determine whether Colorado ethics laws were violated.” said Kendra Arnold, Executive Director of FACT. 

A full copy of the complaint can be found HERE.

FACT is a nonprofit organization promoting accountability, ethics, and transparency in government and civic arenas. For more on FACT, visit: http://www.factdc.org

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