Posted on 01/07/2005 3:20:23 PM PST by NormsRevenge
The head of the Joint Legislative Audit Committee, who promised that "no stone would be left unturned" in the panel's review of Secretary of State Kevin Shelley's handling of federal election funds, has backed off a request that her fellow Democrat appear in person at the panel's only scheduled hearing.
Republicans and at least one Democrat complained that the approach borders on a partisan "whitewash" unless more substantial hearings, including testimony from Shelley, occur.
A state auditor's report last month found that Shelley mismanaged millions of dollars in federal Help America Vote Act money and likely used some nonpartisan funds to promote Democrats.
Assemblywoman Nicole Parra, D-Hanford, chairwoman of the Joint Legislative Audit Committee, last month requested the appearance of Shelley and several of his aides, including former second-in-command Mark Kyle. But now the tentative agenda for Monday's hearing specifies that Shelley "or (his) designee" will appear.
"That shouldn't even be on the agenda," said Sen. Dean Florez, D-Shafter, who expects to sit on the committee. "It shouldn't be his designee. He should show up, period. We should demand that he show up. And if he doesn't show up, we should demand a subpoena."
Parra declined interview requests Thursday.
(Excerpt) Read more at sacbee.com ...
Sacramento Bee/José Luis Villegas
California Secretary of State Kevin Shelley awaits Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger's State of the State speech Wednesday in the state Capitol. Shelley's spokeswoman declined to say whether he would appear at a hearing Monday into allegations of mishandling funds.
Of course - he's a Democrat and besides the majority party doesn't want to be tainted by his corruption.
A few yrs ago the Republicans weren't afraid to put their Ins Commissioner out when some shenanigans were exposed. Heck' they could wait to do it. The pubbies know their role in this "Two-Party Cartel".
Disclaimer: Opinions posted on Free Republic are those of the individual posters and do not necessarily represent the opinion of Free Republic or its management. All materials posted herein are protected by copyright law and the exemption for fair use of copyrighted works.