US Congresswoman Asks DOJ to Investigate Florida Power & Light Over Allegations of Dark Money and Election Interference
U.S. Representative Kathy Castor has requested the Department of Justice to investigate Florida Power & Light (FPL) over allegations of using “dark money” to disguise sources of political funding and sway elections in Florida, as well as other documented claims.
Allegations of Corruption and Election Interference
According to Castor’s letter to Attorney General Merrick Garland, recent press reports in Florida have exposed apparent corruption, influence peddling, and breaches of the public trust by FPL and its officers. The letter highlights numerous public corruption scandals involving electric utilities across the country, which have resulted in federal public corruption criminal and civil probes, and suggests that similar oversight is needed in Florida.
FPL’s Response
FPL Chief Communications Officer David Reuter disputed the allegations, stating that documents cited in the news reports were “both an inaccurate and misleading representation of our actions.” Reuter attributed the leaked documents to a bitter legal dispute between the owner of an Alabama-based consulting firm, Matrix, and its former employees, who are trying to gain leverage in the litigation.
Investigation and Litigation
Castor’s request for an investigation follows reporting from the Orlando Sentinel that Matrix worked to oust the utility’s foes from elected office. The Miami Herald and the Sentinel reported that the Alabama consulting firm secretly bankrolled a Tallahassee news outlet that advocated for rate hikes, pushed for legislative favors, and criticized political opponents of FPL. The firm was also accused of covertly surveilling a Florida Times-Union columnist whose coverage was deemed critical of FPL.
Related Investigations
Separately, two political operatives and an independent candidate were charged in Seminole County in May with election finance violations. The owner of Matrix, Alex Alvarado, has been notified by South Florida prosecutors that he is a target of their investigation, which has already led to the indictment of former lawmaker Frank Artiles.
Conclusion
The allegations against FPL and Matrix have raised concerns about the integrity of Florida’s elections and the potential for dark money to influence political outcomes. The Department of Justice’s investigation will help determine whether these allegations are substantiated and what actions, if any, should be taken to ensure the integrity of Florida’s political process.
FAQs
* What is the purpose of the investigation?
The investigation aims to determine whether FPL and Matrix used “dark money” to influence political outcomes in Florida and whether any laws were broken.
* Who is involved in the investigation?
The investigation involves the Department of Justice, the Federal Election Commission, and state prosecutors in Florida.
* What are the allegations against FPL and Matrix?
The allegations include using dark money to influence political outcomes, covertly surveilling political opponents, and engaging in corrupt practices to influence elections.