Michigan Senate leader asks DOJ to investigate Whitmer over $20 million fraud scheme

Republican Michigan Senate leader Aric Nesbitt asked the Justice Department Monday to investigate Democratic Gov. Gretchen Whitmer's possible role in a $20 million state fraud scheme after one of her allies was charged in the scandal. 

Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel announced 16 felony charges against Fay Beydoun, 62, of Farmington Hills earlier this month. Beydoun is accused of misusing a $20 million grant meant to start a business accelerator.

Nesbitt, who is running for the Republican nomination for governor, described Beydoun as a political donor and close ally of the governor, who also allegedly has a close friendship with Nessel, according to CBS News. 

"Michigan deserves a governor who works for everyone in this state, not favored cronies who fund her lifestyle and campaigns," Nesbitt said in a statement. "Let me be clear: if the governor is found complicit in this scheme to rob taxpayers, she must be held accountable under the law.

"We are going to follow the money, uncover the truth and deliver justice for the taxpayers of this state," he added.

Nesbitt asked acting Attorney General Todd Blanche to call for an independent investigation into Whitmer's possible role, citing that her friendship with Nessel raises a potential conflict of interest.

"Under normal circumstances, state-level authorities should handle such matters," Nesbitt told Blanche. "However, Michigan faces a unique crisis of oversight. This relationship creates an inherent conflict of interest that calls into question whether the Michigan attorney general can impartially investigate the governor." 

Whitmer, who is term limited, has not commented on the possible investigation so far. 

Misty Severi is a news reporter for Just The News. You can follow her on X for more coverage.