We heard from the mayor of New Orleans today on recent reports that federal investigators are digging into several issues surrounding her.
Allegations include claims of improper spending of campaign funds at high-end boutiques, a kitchen store and for an image consultant along with questions into payroll records for Jeffrey Vappie. He is the mayor's NOPD bodyguard. Cantrell and Vappie were caught on video going in and out of the city-owned French Quarter apartment all hours of the day and night, leading to allegations of an affair.
"I've been a center of countless investigations, right? And, I have always complied, and that's what I will continue to do," the mayor told reporters. "I've been in them. I've been through them, and I will continue to comply however they come."
Cantrell did raise the race issue.
"I do know that this seems to be kind of prevalent relative to black leadership. I think that I am not exempt from that," the mayor said.
WWL TV reports that the feds are looking into Cantrell's campaign having paid an image consultant nearly $235,000.
Cantrell also addressed the recent state ethics charges against her related to illegally charging tax payers tens of thousands of dollars for seat upgrades on airplanes... but didn't say if she will appeal the charges.
"So I'm really not clear on those charges specifically. I'm definitely not in favor of them at all. But I will I will comply. I'll do the right thing," she said.
The mayor said previously that she would pay back the $29,000 for first class and business class upgrades.