April 21, 2010
-
News: IRS Probes Into Florida's GOP
The talk around town made it to the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) as they begin an investigation in the alleged credit card abuse of some of Florida's Republican Party members. For several weeks, Florida's former House Speaker, Marco Rubio, has maintained his innocence amid rumors and allegations that he abused the party's American Express credit card. Two other party leaders, Florida's former GOP Chairman Jim Greer and former Executive Director Delmar Johnson are also on the coals for personally benefiting from the party's credit cards at donor's expense. It is also alleged that the three failed to report the expenses on their income tax filings. Failing to report these items would amount to charging taxpayers double for the benefits. According to a statement made by Rubio, he acknowledged his error in purchasing several airline flights to Tallahassee, Florida. Although Rubio said he intends to pay back the charges, he has yet to do so.
The IRS is conducting the investigation to determine if enough evidence exists to begin a criminal investigation for credit card misuse and other possible criminal activities. Rubio, who is running for the State Senate, said that he has not been contacted by the IRS but feels bringing everything to the surface will be the best for everyone. Word has it the United States Attorney's Office in Tallahassee along with the FBI and the IRS have all been working together to make some sense of the alleges credit card abuse. The investigation which comes out of a probe into criminal activities by former House Speaker Ray Sansom is sure to give the Democratic Party ammunition against the Republicans during the campaign. Sansom was indicted on third degree felony grand theft and conspiracy for funneling millions of dollars into Northwest Florida State. Sansom is awaiting trial.
Meanwhile, Florida's donors, taxpayers, Republicans, and Governor Charlie Crist are asking for an in depth investigation into the alleged credit card abuse by Rubio, Greer, and Johnson and demanding the three reimburse the Party and taxpayers. Like Sansom, the investigation could lead to charges of fraud and tax evasion. A spokesperson for Florida's Republican Party would not confirm the investigation; however, the party has stopped issuing cards.