New Jersey Gov. Phil Murphy used a taxpayer-funded expense account for nearly $12,000 on MetLife Stadium, including nearly $1,000 for a 2018 Taylor Swift concert.
Murphy has asked the Democratic State Committee to reimburse the state for the purchases, Politico first reported. The news agency cited records showing the Democratic governor spent the money on snacks and drinks at various events in 2018 and 2019, including Swift’s concert, sporting events and a music festival hosted by a City of Massachusetts radio station. NY.
A spokesman for Murphy said the Democratic State Committee was expected to cover the costs of the stadium. When it didn’t, the bill was paid through the governor’s $95,000 annual spending account.
“Once it became clear that there were outstanding bills that had not been paid, the State stepped up to meet this responsibility,” Jennifer Sciortino said, adding that the committee had a different leadership team at the time and the The charges in question “occurred during a time of personnel transition.” He said the governor’s office is seeking reimbursement from the committee, “consistent with our practice for many years.”
Noting the staff transition, Democratic Party spokesman Phil Swibinski said the committee’s current leadership team “had no knowledge of the bill that was allegedly paid by the State.” He said party officials are investigating the matter.
“The State Party regularly pays the cost of food and beverage service at non-governmental events hosted by the governor, including MetLife Stadium, and all such payments are disclosed to ELEC in accordance with state law,” Swibinski said.
2023-11-02 14:25:48
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