Herb Morgan, California State Controller candidate, cites undercover video raising questions about audit capacity and references prior analysis on statewide financial exposure and transparency reforms
SAN DIEGO, CA / ACCESS Newswire / April 8, 2026 / California State Controller candidate Herb W. Morgan issued a statement calling for the resignation of State Controller Malia Cohen or, alternatively, a legislative review of the office’s performance, following the release of an undercover video by journalist James O’Keefe and O’Keefe Media Group.
The video features Bismarck Obando, Acting Deputy Controller of Public Affairs and Press Secretary for the Controller’s Office, who discusses internal challenges related to staffing and audit capacity. In the footage, Obando states that certain audits are not being completed and references concerns about oversight across various public entities.
As California’s chief fiscal officer, the State Controller is responsible for accounting, auditing, and financial oversight of public funds across state and local governments.
Morgan cited the video as raising concerns about the office’s ability to fulfill its responsibilities.
Morgan also referenced prior campaign research, including a five-year analysis estimating $312 billion to $425 billion in potential financial exposure across major state programs based on publicly available data. Separately, he has outlined a “Radical Transparency” plan for near-time financial monitoring and audit accountability detailing how the Controller’s office could strengthen oversight and improve financial reporting.
“Controller Malia Cohen’s office has acknowledged significant limitations in its audit capacity,” said Morgan. “When the state’s primary fiscal oversight office is unable to complete key audits, it raises serious questions about accountability and transparency. Californians deserve confidence that public funds are being properly reviewed and safeguarded.”
Morgan added that, if the concerns outlined in the video are substantiated, the Legislature should consider its constitutional oversight authority.
Under Article IV, Section 18 of the California Constitution, the State Assembly holds the authority to impeach statewide elected officials, with the State Senate responsible for conducting trials and determining removal from office in cases of misconduct.
Morgan stated that his campaign is focused on strengthening financial oversight and improving transparency in state government operations.
“Ensuring consistent, independent audits and clear financial reporting is essential to maintaining public trust,” Morgan said.
About Herb Morgan
Herb W. Morgan is a San Diego-based businessman, fiscal watchdog, and Republican candidate for California State Controller. His campaign is focused on restoring honest, independent oversight of California’s finances, ending waste and fraud, and ensuring every taxpayer dollar is accounted for.
Follow @Herb4Controller on all social media platforms.
Media Contact:
Nicolette Mangubat
Nico@SwingWireMedia.com
619-306-6956
SOURCE: Herb Morgan for California State Controller 2026
View the original press release on ACCESS Newswire
Media gallery
