Arkansas Attorney General Tim Griffin released an opinion at the request of Gov. Sarah Huckabee Sanders, stating that certain executive branch officials like the governor are not subject to laws regulating government purchases. This follows an investigation into Sanders’ office’s controversial $19,000 lectern purchase last year, authorized by lawmakers in October. The results of this audit are expected to be released by the end of next week.
The purchase was made with a state credit card from a politically connected vendor, and the Republican Party of Arkansas later reimbursed the amount. Critics called the purchase and subsequent FOIA exemption for the governor’s security a “manufactured controversy.”
Griffin’s opinion affirms that constitutional offices are not subject to specific state purchasing laws unless they are mentioned. This information has raised concerns that Sanders’ office may have violated procurement laws.
Attorney Tom Mars, who has criticized Sanders over the controversy dubbed “Lecterngate,” stated that if the audit reveals illegal activity by the governor’s office, it could have serious consequences. He also suggested that Griffin’s opinion may serve as a public relations strategy. Both Griffin and Sanders’ office declined to comment on the matter.
The story continues to unfold as lawmakers prepare to release the audit report, providing more insights into the lectern purchase and potential legal implications for Sanders’ administration.
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