State Representative Ryan Spain (il) | Representative Ryan Spain (R) 73rd District Deputy Republican Leader
State Representative Ryan Spain (il) | Representative Ryan Spain (R) 73rd District Deputy Republican Leader
An investigation from Illinois’ executive inspector general has revealed that Daniel Thomas, the former deputy director of the Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO), financially benefited from the marketing efforts of Illinois tourism, while maintaining ties to TimeZoneOne, a company contracted for these initiatives. Thomas was known for promoting Illinois through various media channels, but findings indicate he continued to profit from his former company after joining the state department.
According to the inspector general's report, "Mr. Thomas received over $136,000 in payments from TimeZoneOne after he began working at DCEO." Concerns are raised regarding Thomas’s ability to remain "independent and objective" as he was involved in negotiating his payment from TimeZoneOne while managing its state contracts.
During his tenure, Thomas was responsible for increasing the production of marketing materials under the "Illinois Made" campaign. His efforts included work-related travels to Europe, Mexico, and the Rose Bowl in California.
Illinois Governor JB Pritzker's administration has announced the termination of Thomas following the investigation's findings.
Readers can access the complete reports from WGN Investigates and the Office of Executive Inspector General through the provided links.
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