Arizona AG investigating Governor Hobbs in connection with alleged pay-to-play scheme

Lina Portman3 weeks ago

0 1 minute read

WASHINGTON (DT) — Arizona Democratic Attorney General Kris Mayes is investigating Democratic Gov. Katie Hobbs for an alleged “pay-to-play scheme.”

The Arizona Republic reported that Sunshine Residential Homes, a group home, donated $400,000 to Hobbs and the Democratic Party. The report claims that as a result of the six-figure donation, the group got more money from the state.

After the report was made public, State Senator TJ Shope, R-District 16, sent a letter to Mayes expressing concerns that Governor Hobbs might be using the Department of Child Services in the state to increase group home payments.

“I am deeply concerned by recent media reports describing what can only be described as a pay-to-play scheme between Governor Katie Habbs' office, the Arizona Department of Child Safety and political donors,” Shope wrote. are bound by oath to follow the laws of our state and be prudent stewards of taxpayer dollars.

It claims the governor may be violating state laws related to corruption, fraud, illegal use of state money and a conflict of interest.

“I respectfully request that your office review the facts surrounding the Department of Child Safety's alleged decision to approve a nearly 60% rate increase for Sunshine Residential Homes and determine whether the conduct of the “one of the parties involved warrants a criminal or civil investigation,” he continued.

The day after sending the letter, Mayes announced an investigation.

“Like every other 'investigation' launched by this chaotic and radical legislature, this is another desperate and partisan stunt. It will do nothing but show that the administration puts the best interests of the 'Arizona,' officials from the governor's office told the Arizona Republic.

“We have always been steadfast in our commitment and partnership with the State of Arizona and remain committed to doing so in the future while fully cooperating with any investigation,” a spokesperson for Sunshine Residential Homes told the media.