Ethics Probe into Oregon Governor Kotek’s Spending: Tradition or Transgression?

Auditors from the Oregon Secretary of State’s Office who investigated alleged spending irregularities by Governor Tina Kotek say the incidents were minor and unintentional violations of state ethics law.

However, the state’s Ethics Committee voted last Friday to further investigate expenditure on three items by the Governor that were flagged by the auditors.

The investigation initially began after an alleged misuse of state resources was reported anonymously last March to the government accountability hotline regarding Kotek’s planned creation of an office of the first spouse, a project she has since ditched.

Auditors found no grounds to substantiate the allegation but flagged an employee recognition buffet, concert tickets, and parking, all of which they labeled minor and unintentional.

Insufficient Evidence for Ethics Commission to Make a Final Ruling

At last week’s meeting, members of the Ethics Commission found that there was insufficient information provided by the auditors for them to make a final decision.

Chairman David Fiskum and four commission members will instruct staff to investigate the auditors’ findings and present more information at a future meeting.

Once the investigation is completed, the Ethics Commission will be left with two choices – drop the matter or continue investigations that could lead to fines.

All Flagged Issues Have Been Longstanding Traditions

Governor Kotek has been advised by the auditors to review accounting procedures and state law. Her communications director replied that all three matters flagged by the auditors were longstanding traditions that Kotek had inherited from past governors.

The initial investigation was into the Governor-hosted dinner reception at her official residence in recognition of employees in August 2023 that cost $9,330.

The Governor also hosted the State Police and Department of Administrative Services at the buffet.

The longstanding annual Governor dinner has 180 invited guests, but according to state policy only chips, cookies, juice, and coffee can be served. Kotek’s office says the 2023 dinner was consistent with past governor practices, but her office will review catering practices.