Lt. Governor Billy Nungesser says a lawsuit filed against him by longtime State Librarian Rebecca Hamilton is possibly politically motivated. Hamilton alleges Lt. Gov. Billy Nungesser fired her and had her marched out of her office after she reported him to the FBI over what she calls “questionable contracts.” On Jim Engster’s “Talk Louisiana” radio show, Nungesser says he had nothing to do with Hamilton being placed on administrative leave…
“First off: I consider Rebecca a friend. I did not fire her. she was put on leave by H.R. because seven employees made complaints.”
Nungesser was questioned by the FBI about some contracts awarded by his agency, but no charges were ever filed. Hamilton’s lawsuit asks the judge to prevent Nungesser from taking enforcement action against her related to her being placed in leave in September. Nungesser says he suspects the lawsuit was intended to hurt him politically…
“To have that come out at a time when I MAY be running for governor is just suspicious. This always happens when I am up for some type of an election.”
Nungesser says he did not hire Hamilton and he cannot fire her either. She is currently on leave and collecting her state salary. He says the actions taken against her were because of library employee grievances and the state Library Board will deal with the matter…
“…and maybe she’ll be cleared when this investigation is done, and the Library Board will make the right decision whether to reinstate her or to replace her…but it’s before the Library Board. I have nothing to do with it.”
Nungesser says the lawsuit is an attempt to discredit him as he runs for either higher office or re-election. His decision on that is expected Tuesday morning, but he’ll reportedly seek re-election.
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