Incoming Pennsylvania Attorney General Dave Sunday is facing accusations of politicizing his office before officially taking the role. Patrick Cicero, the state's Consumer Advocate, resigned after Sunday announced plans to seek other candidates for the position. Cicero claims his resignation was prompted by an "open, vocal and public campaign" led by investor-owned utilities, which also contributed to Sunday's campaign.
The Office of Consumer Advocate represents Pennsylvania utility consumers before the state Public Utility Commission. Cicero, described as a "vigorous advocate" by former Public Utility Commission Chairman Jim Cawley, has been a key figure in challenging utility rate hikes and acquisitions. According to ABC27, Cawley alleges that utilities heavily lobbied for Cicero's removal because of his effectiveness in the role.
In his resignation letter, Cicero expressed disappointment, noting that no other Consumer Advocate has resigned upon an administration change in the office's nearly 50-year history. He emphasized that the utilities' actions and Sunday's decision to open the position to other candidates "challenge the integrity and independence of the office" and "erode public trust."
WHYY reports that Sunday's transition team includes representatives from several utilities, raising concerns about potential conflicts of interest. Despite these allegations, Sunday stated his commitment to appointing a "capable, unbiased and apolitical" Consumer Advocate and plans to conduct an open application process for the role.
Sunday, who will be sworn in on Tuesday (January 21), must have his choice for Consumer Advocate confirmed by the Republican-controlled State Senate. As the situation unfolds, the focus remains on ensuring an independent and effective representation for Pennsylvania's utility consumers.