Multiple Delaware officials have been found to have dual roles, working for both the state government and the University of Delaware. A recent investigation by WHYY revealed that over a dozen public officials hold positions at both entities, raising questions about potential conflicts of interest and the extent of taxpayer-funded salaries being received by these individuals.
Among the officials identified in the report are Secretary of State Jeff Bullock, Deputy Health and Social Services Secretary Molly Magarik, and Governor John Carney’s Chief of Staff Sarah Bailey. These individuals are reported to be receiving salaries from both the state and the university, with some earning six-figure incomes from each position.
Critics of this practice argue that it raises concerns about the independence of these officials and the potential for conflicts of interest in decision-making processes. Additionally, the issue of taxpayer-funded salaries being used for multiple roles is being scrutinized, especially in a state where budget constraints and financial accountability are key concerns.
In response to the investigation, University of Delaware officials have stated that employees are required to disclose their outside employment and that these dual roles are not uncommon in academia. However, questions remain about transparency and oversight of these arrangements, particularly in cases where officials hold leadership positions in both the public and private sectors.
As the debate continues, it remains to be seen whether any changes will be made to ensure accountability and prevent potential conflicts of interest among Delaware officials who hold dual roles with the state government and the University of Delaware.
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