A Georgia Senate committee is investigating Fulton County District Attorney Fani Willis' use of public funds, amid allegations of lavish spending and lack of oversight.
Fulton County District Attorney Fani Willis is facing scrutiny over her use of public funds, with a Georgia Senate committee investigating allegations of excessive spending and lack of oversight.
The committee, formed in January by the GOP-controlled Senate, has revealed a lack of control over Willis' $36 million budget, with State Sen. Bill Cowsert, the committee's chairman, comparing it to "the Wild West."
At a hearing earlier this month, Fulton County Commissioner Robb Pitts and Chief Financial Officer Sharon Whittmore testified that Willis has broad discretion over taxpayer dollars, including the hiring and compensation of special prosecutors.
Pitts also stated that Willis did not require pre-approval for hiring independent special counsel to assist with her activities.
The investigation comes amid allegations of an "improper" affair between Willis and special prosecutor Nathan Wade, who she hired to help prosecute former President Donald Trump in a racketeering case.
Trump's legal team is appealing to remove Willis from the case due to the romantic relationship. However, a Georgia appeals court has agreed to hear an appeal on the judge's decision to allow Willis to remain on the case.
Meanwhile, Willis won her primary election on Tuesday by a sweeping margin. In her acceptance speech, she emphasized her commitment to equal protection under the law and criticized those who believe they are above or beneath it.
The committee's findings have raised concerns about Willis' management of taxpayer funds and the need for greater oversight. As the investigation continues, it remains to be seen whether Willis' spending practices will result in sanctions or reforms.
In a separate development, Willis is appealing a judge's decision to drop multiple charges against Trump in the racketeering case. The prosecutor has not indicated why she believes the dismissal should be reversed.
Three of the six counts set to be dropped include Trump as a defendant. The original indictment included 41 counts between Trump and his co-defendants.
The Georgia Senate committee investigation and the legal battles surrounding the racketeering case against Trump have intensified the focus on Willis' spending practices and her fitness to serve as Fulton County District Attorney.
