California Attorney General Rob Bonta faces Scrutiny Amid Potential Governor Run
California Attorney General Rob Bonta is responding to questions regarding significant legal expenditures as he contemplates a potential run for governor. Recent reports have highlighted nearly $500,000 in campaign funds spent last year on personal legal counsel, coinciding with a federal public corruption probe in Oakland.
The spending came to light following a KCRA News report detailing Bonta’s use of campaign funds for legal representation during dealings with federal investigators.Bonta stated he proactively engaged with the U.S. Attorney’s office after receiving a letter from Oakland businessman Mario Juarez warning of a potential blackmail attempt. The letter alleged that another businessman, Andy Duong, possessed a compromising recording of Bonta.
Bonta explained he hired private attorneys to swiftly review and provide relevant facts to federal investigators, aiming to assist in their investigation. He acknowledged the significant legal bills, stating the urgency required multiple attorneys working extensive hours. “I wanted to get them all the information that they wanted, that they needed, give it to them as fast as I could, to assist, to help,” Bonta said.
Duong, along with his father David duong and former Oakland Mayor Sheng thao, have since been indicted on federal bribery charges and have pleaded not guilty. Juarez is believed to be an informant in the case, though his credibility has been questioned by an attorney representing David Duong. Juarez could not be reached for comment.
Bonta also disclosed that he has been notified by the state’s Fair Political Practices Commission of a complaint filed against him,which he and his advisors believe concerns the use of campaign funds for legal expenses and suspect originated from a rival gubernatorial campaign.
Despite the scrutiny, Bonta dismissed the notion of having “baggage” that could hinder a potential campaign.He emphasized his cooperation with federal prosecutors as a commitment to public safety and accountability. “That’s what I would expect anyone to do, certainly someone who is committed as I am to public safety,” he stated.
Throughout his tenure as Attorney general, bonta has been a vocal opponent of former President Trump’s policies, filing 46 lawsuits against the management. A Bonta advisor, Democratic strategist Dan Newman, characterized the recent controversies as a “badge of respect” and suggested they stem from fear of Bonta’s political strength.
