The Democratic Party in Orange County is facing significant challenges as a former staffer has made serious allegations against Janet Keo Conklin, a candidate for county assessor. The claims suggest that a discussion about breast implants turned into an inappropriate situation during a staff meeting.
Conklin, a La Palma City Council member and real estate agent, has strongly denied the accusations, which include forcing staff to touch her breasts and making comments about her lack of sensation. Reportedly, these comments were made in a private context with two staffers.
The situation has shocked staff members, who expressed their disbelief after leaving the campaign, as conveyed in various media outlets.
Conklin gave an interview where she maintained her innocence, and her political consultant, Michael Trujillo, called the claims unfounded. He suggested that the accusations stem from former employees with performance issues plotting against her, specifically targeting ex-campaign finance director Cine Ivery.
Ivery, who had been involved with a campaign tainted by financial misconduct, has reportedly aired concerns about Conklin’s campaign finances since his departure. Trujillo remarked that he advised Conklin to dismiss Ivery due to his lack of knowledge regarding finances.
Accusations have also surfaced concerning Conklin’s spending of campaign funds on personal expenses like dining out, with staff alleging she even asked them to document her living costs as part of campaign expenses. Trujillo described this as a misunderstanding from an inexperienced candidate.
As of April, the campaign had utilized nearly all of its raised funds amounting to $61,000. Former aides also claimed funds were misappropriated to pay Conklin’s daughter and a friend, both of whom disassociated themselves from the campaign’s operations.
Trujillo suggested that the scandal had been blown out of proportion, attributing some issues to a simple dinner without proper receipts. He expressed frustration about the media’s interpretation of the events, especially revolving around what he calls a trivial matter.
After the allegations emerged, the Orange County Democratic Party withdrew their support. Floris Hoffman, a party leader, advised Conklin to seek legal counsel following the revelations.
Despite this setback, Conklin remained unbothered about the loss of party support, pointing out that financial backing can fluctuate. Trujillo criticized the party’s leadership and hinted at plans to reform the delegation for future elections.
