David Wheeler Requests Investigation of State Vehicle Use by Insurance Commissioner Mike Causey

October 23, 2023 at 09:11 AM EDT

David B Wheeler Candidate for NC Commissioner of Insurance

Raleigh, North Carolina Oct 23, 2023 (Issuewire.com) - David B. Wheeler, a small business owner, single father of three kids, and non-career politician running for 2024 NC Commissioner of Insurance, today requested that current DOI Commissioner John Michael Causey be investigated for allegedly breaking the law in North Carolina by using a state vehicle for continual personal use.

Causey may use a vehicle when on official Dept of Insurance travel. However, he is not allowed to use a state vehicle for personal or political use, or driving to and from his home to his office (aka "duty station"), under any circumstances unless he reimburses the State of North Carolina.

After reviewing all of Causey's vehicle logs, Wheeler noted that Causey has not reimbursed the State of NC despite the fact he drives to and from his home outside Greensboro to his office in Raleigh (over 150 miles roundtrip daily) untilizing the State of NC owned vehicle. This is against State travel regulations.

The travel logs are available to review by clicking here. Wheeler has forwarded a copy of his complaint to the Department of Insurance, State Treasurer, State Auditor, and the Office of State Budget and Management requesting an investigation and a copy of the letter is available by clicking here.

Wheeler said today: "When I become Commissioner on January 1, 2025, one of my first acts will be to eliminate a state vehicle for myself and get rid of the Commissioner's reserved parking spot. I can drive myself in my own car and park in an open parking space like everyone else. The best way to eliminate abuse is to eliminate the Commissioner's car. I also need the exercise; so I'll eliminate a fancy parking spot with my name on it close to the office.

I'm running to be a Commissioner who helps keep down insurance rates, leads the fight against abusive tactics by insurance companies, and attracts new insurance companies to North Carolina with high-paying private sector jobs, for those companies that will play by the rules.

When I beat Rate Hike Mike Causey, like a drum, in November 2024, I will focus this Department on helping the people. The days of spending like a drunken sailor by the Commissioner will be over. You can take that to the bank."

Below is an excerpt that outlines the rules related to travel in the State of North Carolina State Budget Act Manuel published by the Office of the State Budget and Management. A link to the document is here: NC Travel Regulations.