What Happened:
In 2015, Miller’s office expensed an Oklahoma trip ostensibly for official meetings; however, later reporting showed the real purpose was for Sid Miller to receive personal medical care, obtaining a so-called “Jesus Shot.”
Around the same time, a Mississippi rodeo trip was also charged to taxpayers. Only after the scandal came to light was Miller forced to repay the funds; he ended up receiving a serious ethics penalty for this misuse of Texas taxpayer funds for his personal enjoyment.
Why It Matters:
Public money is not a private slush fund. The penalty and reimbursements underscore a breach of fiduciary responsibility and judgment unbecoming of a statewide official.
TAXPAYER DOLLARS FOR PRIVATE TRIPS
The Proof:
Miller Fined Over Mississippi Rodeo – Miller was fined by the Texas Ethics Commission for using state and campaign funds to compete in a Mississippi rodeo.
The “Jesus Shot” Scandal: Miller faced national ridicule after using taxpayer funds to travel to Oklahoma for a controversial, unapproved injection he called the “Jesus Shot”—a mix of vitamins, steroids, and painkillers touted as a miracle cure. He later claimed the trip was “official business.”
That Wasn’t The Only Time Sid Was Unethical With Finances:
Miller Profited from Campaign Loan – Miller made a $10,000 personal loan to his campaign at a 10% interest rate and reimbursed himself $31,000.
Miller Spent $55,000 on Office Décor – Miller used campaign donor funds to decorate his office with Wild West-themed furnishings.