From WGN Investigates: The self-described “face of Illinois tourism” was financially benefitting from efforts to market the state, according to findings from Illinois’ executive inspector general.
Daniel Thomas made frequent appearances in the media promoting Illinois through his work as deputy director of the Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity, but the inspector general found he was still profiting from his former company that was hired to help with the marketing effort.
“Mr. Thomas received over $136,000 in payments from TimeZoneOne after he began working at DCEO,” the inspector general determined.
At one point, Thomas was vigorously negotiating his own payment from his former firm, TimeZoneOne, while overseeing the company’s contracts with the state, “raising serious questions regarding his ability to be independent and objective in his dealings,” the inspector general concluded. […]
The inspector general said Thomas increased the firm’s production of marketing videos and marketing materials under the “Illinois Made” campaign during his tenure with the state. He also traveled to Europe, Mexico and the Rose Bowl in California as part of his work with the Illinois Tourism Office.
Illinois Gov. JB Pritzker’s administration said Thomas was terminated immediately following receipt of the results of the investigation.
To read the full WGN story – click here.
To read the Office of Executive Inspector General (OEIG) report – click here.