Heath Flora has been ousted as the leader of the California Assembly Republican caucus, according to a source familiar with the situation. The change comes days after reports surfaced detailing two state ethics investigations into Flora and revelations of significant campaign spending at a Sacramento bar.
Assemblywoman Alexandra Macedo, a first-term Republican from Tulare, has been chosen to succeed Flora as the minority leader. Flora's tenure leading the Republican caucus concludes less than a year after he assumed the position.
The ouster followed The California Post's reporting that the Fair Political Practices Commission has initiated investigations into allegations concerning Flora's use of campaign funds and his disclosure of behested payments, which are charitable donations solicited by elected officials.
Additionally, reports indicated that Flora's campaign allocated over $11,000 to Chargins’ Bar & Grill, a venue located more than 50 miles from his district. Sources cited in the reports suggested Flora was a frequent patron of the establishment.
Mora's removal also comes on the heels of discontent among Republicans regarding his recent vote on legislation that permits 14 local governments to pursue sales tax increases beyond established limits. Flora and Assembly Republican Caucus Chairman Juan Alanis were the sole Republican votes in favor of the measure, drawing criticism from conservatives who viewed the action as aiding Democrats in advancing tax hikes amid a statewide affordability crisis.
Prior to the caucus meeting on Monday, discussions among several Republican lawmakers had already been underway regarding a potential challenge to Flora's leadership.