Campaign Treasurer Admits to Embezzling Over $840,000 from Political Funds

Luxury Spree Exposed: Bikes, Yachts, and More

Katherine Margaret Buchanan, a 59-year-old Alexandria woman, pleaded guilty today to embezzling over $840,000 from federal campaign funds and evading taxes, the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Virginia announced.

Buchanan, a veteran campaign compliance consultant and treasurer for multiple political campaigns and PACs, misused her access from 2020 to 2024 to divert funds for personal expenses.

These included dining, a Peloton bike, clothing, airline tickets to Italy, concert suites, yacht charters, and legal fees. She also under-reported income from 2017 to 2022, evading $671,200 in federal taxes.

Buchanan faces up to five years in prison per charge, with sentencing set for October 8. A federal judge will determine her sentence based on U.S. Sentencing Guidelines.

The case, prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Katherine E. Rumbaugh, was investigated by the FBI and IRS.

U.S. Attorney’s Office, Eastern District of Virginia: Campaign treasurer pleads guilty to embezzling over $840,000