State Reps. Sophie Phillips and Madinah Wilson-Anton, both Democrats, are calling for Lt. Gov. Bethany Hall-Long to withdraw from the gubernatorial race in Delaware. This comes after a state report found inconsistencies and lack of cooperation in an “audit” conducted on Hall-Long’s campaign finances. The report stated that Hall-Long’s handpicked accounting firm did not seek sufficient evidence and did not fully cooperate with the state’s review.
Phillips expressed shock and disappointment at the findings, stating that trust is essential in an elected official responsible for a $6 billion budget. Wilson-Anton also criticized Hall-Long’s actions, stating that they are disqualifying for someone running for office. Despite their criticisms, both lawmakers acknowledged that Hall-Long may have good intentions but emphasized the need for competency and trustworthiness in a governor.
This development is unusual in Delaware politics, where public criticism of high-ranking party members is rare. Hall-Long’s primary opponents have also raised concerns about the lack of transparency surrounding the audit conducted by Summit CPA Group. Hall-Long’s husband, Dana Long, has also faced controversy in the past for stealing campaign signs during his wife’s previous campaigns.
The gubernatorial primary in Delaware is heating up, with House Minority Leader Mike Ramone and former police officer Jerry Price facing off in the Republican primary. The winner of the primary will go up against the Democratic nominee in the general election. With calls for Hall-Long to withdraw from the race, the future of the gubernatorial race in Delaware remains uncertain.
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