My interview with candidate for California State Controller Herb Morgan on how to stop the fraud in California and what a State Controller actually does.
Herbmorgan.com
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# Understanding the Role of California's State Controller
> A deep dive into the often-overlooked office and its significance.
In a recent conversation, Kira Davis and Herb Morgan shed light on a pivotal yet frequently misunderstood governmental position: the State Controller of California. This episode dives into why this role is crucial for preventing fraud and ensuring the proper management of taxpayer funds.
## What is a State Controller?
Herb Morgan, who is running for the State Controller position, explained that many people are unaware of its importance. Unlike the state auditor, an employee who audits each agency, the State Controller has unlimited audit authority. This role is designed to safeguard taxpayer resources against fraud.
> "The primary function of the state controller is to prevent fraud. It's not just a job; it's the reason the position was created." — Herb Morgan
Morgan elaborated that the State Controller must pre-audit all state spending to verify its legality and compliance with the law. However, he argues that the current controller is failing in this duty, allowing entities to self-certify their spending without proper oversight.
## The Current Situation
The conversation took a concerning turn as Morgan revealed that the current state controller, Malia Cohen, is accused of not conducting necessary pre-audits. He cited a video featuring a spokesperson for Cohen, who admitted that fraud is prevalent within the agencies and that audits are not being performed as required.
> "Every day I see story after story about fraud in California government spending. It's not just the governor's job to stop it; it's the controller's job." — Herb Morgan
Morgan highlighted that California has a history of fraud in government spending and emphasized that voters need to pay attention to this office on their ballots, as it directly impacts how taxpayer money is managed.
## A Call to Action
As Kira pointed out, this office is often overlooked by voters, yet its impact is significant. The conversation encourages listeners to educate themselves about the State Controller's role and to consider the implications of electing someone who will effectively safeguard taxpayer funds.
In closing, this episode serves as a reminder that understanding our government, down to its most obscure offices, is crucial for holding leaders accountable. For those interested in learning more, this episode provides a deep dive into the realities of California's fiscal management and the vital importance of the State Controller role.
