Actress Melissa Gilbert, a Democratic candidate for Congress in Michigan, is attempting to fundraise off of the drinking water crisis in her state.
Gilbert’s congressional campaign sent an email to supporters Tuesday to fundraise off of the lead water crisis in Flint, Michigan. The toxic levels of lead discovered in Flint’s tap water have provoked national outcry, and the matter is currently being investigated by the FBI, the Environmental Protection Agency, and other agencies.
"As a mother, my greatest fear is that what’s happening in Flint would be happening to my children. This tragedy is absolutely heartbreaking. Innocent people, especially children, are suffering from lead poisoning because elected officials put politics over people," the email sent by Gilbert’s congressional campaign read.
"Enough is enough. Children and families in Flint need immediate relief--I’m calling on Congress to set aside partisanship and step up to help Flint. Will you join me?"
The email directed a recipient to click a link to sign his or her name "to demand Congress take action to help the children and families of Flint."
The link then led the recipient to an ActBlue fundraising page for Gilbert that said his or name had been "recorded." The page asked supporters to contribute between $5 and $1,000 to Gilbert’s campaign to represent Michigan’s 8th Congressional District.
Gilbert is best known for her starring role in the NBC 1970s and 80s television show Little House on the Prairie. In announcing her campaign, Gilbert pledged to make life easier for families in today’s economy.
Gilbert is also known for getting into tax trouble. The IRS accused the actress of failing to pay over $360,000 in federal income taxes from 2011, 2012 and 2013 last June.