Newly released emails indicate the head of an advocacy group for open government wanted to give an award to Gov. Susana Martinez weeks before the group sued Martinez for withholding a controversial audit report.
The Santa Fe New Mexican reports that emails detailing the information were released by Terry Schleder, the ousted director of the New Mexico Foundation for Open Government.
The emails indicate that foundation Chairwoman Terri Cole wanted Martinez and Attorney General Gary King awarded for actions on using private emails for government business.
Another board member objected to the proposed awards, saying Martinez only belatedly took her ultimate position.
Cole responded by saying the foundation should recognize officials when they end up doing the right thing because it will encourage others to follow suit.
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