JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. — The Missouri State Auditor has opened an inquiry into the hiring of two private attorneys that will work in Gov. Eric Greitens's office for possible impeachment proceedings.
“If taxpayers are going to be footing the bill for the governor's legal expenses in regards to these impeachment proceedings, taxpayers deserve to know,” said State Auditor Nicole Galloway.
Galloway wants answers by Friday as to why private attorneys were hired and whether they are representing the office of governor or Greitens himself.
Wednesday members of the Special Investigative committee had the same question.
Kansas City attorney Edward Greim and well known impeachment attorney Ross Garber represent the office of the governor.
Combined both lawyers are paid $660 an hour.
“It is time now to consider rules for the next stage that we are going into. We are where we are. Let's get it done in the next two days,” said Attorney Edward Greim.
Ross Garber has worked with multiple governors who faced possible impeachment.
Most recently Mark Sanford in South Carolina when his affair became public.
Garber says they want an open process. They want the special session bearings to include witnesses being questioned by both sides.
Garber also thinks all witnesses should testify in public. Including the woman who Greitens had an affair with.
“If it is going to potentially affect an election. The public should see what happens. They should hear directly from the witnesses, the public should be able to evaluate the credibility of the witnesses,” said Attorney Ross Garber.
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