Martinez Trims Mansion Spending

Albuquerque Journal - When it comes to entertaining at the Governor’s Mansion, Susana Martinez is no Bill Richardson. But she’s no Gary Johnson, either. In 2011, her first year in office, Martinez spent $63,572 from a discretionary expense account, with most of that money going toward dinners, receptions and other events at the mansion in the foothills of Santa Fe.
The governor spent $21,112 from the account in the first quarter of 2012, but the early months of the year are a particularly busy time at the mansion, in part because legislators are in town for their annual session.

In 2008, just as the shine was wearing off the economy and his political star, Richardson spent $138,925 on entertainment at the mansion and other expenses. Actors George Clooney, Robert Duvall, Jeff Bridges and Robert Redford were among the Richardson guests that year. Richardson said the mansion “was meant to be a place to showcase New Mexico, a place to promote our state and our people.”
Martinez accused Richardson of wasteful spending at the mansion. She hasn’t entertained any celebrities, her office said. Read full story here (subscription required): News New Mexico

Martinez Trims Mansion Spending