It was another response straight out of the Reynolds playbook. After Treasurer Mike Fitzgerald informed Governor Reynolds that her plan to borrow $13 million from the economic emergency funds was not compliant with Iowa law, she dodged accountability and dismissed serious questions about her potentially illegal move.
“It’s not shocking that Governor Reynolds brushed off Treasurer Fitzgerald’s letter about her ability to borrow $13 million in taxpayer money, but it should be. This is a serious legal question, and she treated it like a tabloid headline. This is yet another failure in leadership from our governor. Iowans deserve better,” said Iowa Democratic Party Spokesperson Tess Seger.
DES MOINES REGISTER: Reynolds’ budget fix may violate law, state treasurer says; governor dismisses allegation
“The Economic Emergency Fund was designed to be used for real economic emergencies, not mismanagement of the budget. Today’s news is just the latest in a string of mishaps by Reynolds and GOP lawmakers,” Hall said. “They’ve borrowed over a hundred million on the state’s credit card this year and Iowans keep getting stuck with the bill.”
CEDAR RAPIDS GAZETTE: Reynolds defends her decisions on Iowa budget
“’To me, that’s a violation of the Iowa law. It’s a serious issue. In Iowa, we follow the law. If we don’t, we get in trouble,’ [said Iowa State Treasurer Michael Fitzgerald].”
WHO-TV: State Treasurer Questions Legality of Governor Reynolds’ Money Transfer
ASSOCIATED PRESS: Iowa Treasurer: Budget Transfer Move Not Legally Compliant