Gubernatorial Race Intensifies Over Hall-Long Campaign Finance Allegations
Matt Meyer Calls for Federal Probe on Bethany Hall-Long
WILMINGTON, Del. – Six weeks before the primary, the Delaware gubernatorial election intensified when Matt Meyer called for an investigation into Lieutenant Governor Bethany Hall-Long’s campaign finances.
Bethany Hall-Long Campaign Finance Allegations from Matt Meyer
At a Wilmington news conference, New Castle County Executive Matt Meyer accused current Lt. Governor Hall-Long of “near decade-long illegal conduct” regarding campaign finances. Last week, a forensic review found inaccuracies in Hall-Long’s financial reporting, such as a damning audit revealing $298,000 in undisclosed and fraudulent payments to her husband.
“Delawareans deserve leaders who follow the law,” Meyer asserted, while holding up a “Post-it” note that he claimed was from Hall-Long, reminding herself to “create receipts” for the years 2021 and 2022. Meyer argued that under his administration, such actions would warrant termination and legal proceedings.
Hall-Long, who launched her campaign ten months ago, responded to the allegations in a recent exclusive interview with DETV. She denied any personal benefit from the mistakes, emphasizing that the issues were straightforward errors that have since been corrected. “This matter was simply a bookkeeping oversight,” she explained, seeking to reassure voters of her commitment to transparency.
State Representatives Urge Hall-Long to Step Down
Despite the controversy, the Democratic party continues to support Hall-Long, and recent polls show she continues to lead the race. However, State Representative Sophie Phillips, as well as other party members, urged Hall-Long to end her gubernatorial campaign. “Hall-Long has repeatedly broken the law and broken our trust,” Phillips stated, citing concerns from constituents and colleagues about the lieutenant governor’s suitability for office. Hall-Long maintains that these claims are false.
As the primary approaches, these Hall-Long campaign finance allegations have added significant tension to the race for governor, with both candidates emphasizing the importance of integrity and lawful conduct. The outcome of this primary will likely depend on how Delaware voters perceive these accusations by Meyer and Hall-Long’s response.
To hear Lt. Governor Bethany Hall-Long’s direct response about her campaign finances, watch this exclusive DETV conversation.
To learn more about this news story and stay up-to-date, trust in DETV News.
Photos provided by Bethany Hall-Long and Matt Meyer’s government profiles.
