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As you check out the following press release from the Democratic Party of Virginia (DPVA), keep in mind this 2020 report, which found Virginia deep in the “S.W.A.M.P” – one of worst states in the country when it comes to ethics, transparency in government, etc.
New Report Raises Concerns About Corruption and Conflict of Interests in Youngkin Administration
Richmond, VA – In an unprecedented act, a report by the Richmond Times-Dispatch uncovered that Governor Youngkin’s top policy aide and Deputy Chief of Staff is being paid by two outside private consulting firms – not the government. This concerning report laid out the many crucial responsibilities the unpaid “volunteer” carries – including negotiating on behalf of the governor, speaking for the governor, and organizing policy directives this past legislative session.
This raises important questions about the arrangement, whether conflicts of interest exist and whether any ethics laws are being violated or skirted. Virginians deserve transparency and accountability, and who is Gov. Youngkin’s staff accountable to – Virginians or far-right consulting firms?
READ MORE BELOW:
Richmond Times-Dispatch: Top Youngkin aide on payroll of political consultants, not state
By Patrick Wilson & Mel Leonor
A political consulting firm tells clients it will help them navigate the new Republican-controlled executive branch of Virginia’s government. LINK Public Affairs might have an edge over its competition — one of its senior strategists is also a top aide to Gov. Glenn Youngkin and has been working in the governor’s suite.
The Youngkin aide — Matt Moran — wields significant power on behalf of the governor, telling lawmakers which bills the governor might sign or veto and negotiating with them on top policy issues like marijuana legalization, school choice and public funding for a new Washington Commanders stadium. He’s not on the state payroll but is employed by — and on paid leave from — two political consulting firms that seek to influence elected officials…
