The attorney for an Arkansas whistleblower has sent a letter to the state legislature claiming evidence that Gov. Sarah Huckabee Sanders’ office manipulated a document linked to her purchase of a $19,000 podium, according to the Arkansas Times.
The whistleblower also claimed to have evidence that Sanders’ office ordered a state agency not to respond to a Freedom of Information Act request for documents that were not exempt from the law.
The documents were requested by attorney and blogger Matt Campbell, who blew the lid off what’s come to be known as Podiumgate.
Taxpayer funds used to buy the lectern were reimbursed by the state Republican Party on Sept. 14—the same day Sanders signed a law that weakened the state’s Freedom of Information Act.
In all seriousness, custom ordered, using expensive rare woods, hand carvings, rush ordered from a master woodworker… I could see the cost getting up there.
But most government hardwood I’ve seen tends to be common (affordable) American species like oak and walnut. Because, well, it’s supposed to be a representation of America.
So yeah, probably embezzlement.
Could be a kickback or favour to a buddy
Yes. Embezzlement.
Alright, I finally looked up that word.
Walnut definitely isn’t what I would call affordable.
Cheaper than something like Teak…
Edit - Also, to be fair, I usually see American oak and Mahogany used in city halls, etc. Don’t see much walnut, probably just because it’s dark coloring isn’t great for public spaces. But IIRC, I’ve seen a few old floors made with it.