Rep. Paul Broun (R-Ga.) sidestepped questions about a large chunk of his office's spending with taxpayer dollars, shutting the door on a reporter in the process.
WSB-TV published its investigation Monday, which found that Broun's office has paid $33,000 to O'Donnell and Associates, a company that advertises itself as a campaigning coach.
"Can we ask you why you're spending all this money on a debate coach?” WSB-TV reporter Justin Gray asked Broun.
“I’m sorry, I don't have time to talk,” Broun said.
“Can't we talk to you for just one minute please sir?” Gray asked, before Broun shut his office door.
Broun Press Secretary Christine Hardman later presented WSB-TV with a statement on what O'Donnell and Associates does for the congressman.
"He provides training with public speaking, on-camera interviews, and media appearances so that Dr. Broun can best communicate his legislative priorities, issues, and message with his constituents," the statement read.
Broun was one of the first candidates to announce he was running for the seat vacated by retiring Sen. Saxby Chambliss (R-Ga.). The Republican primary for that Senate race is set for May 20.
HuffPost Pollster's latest compilation of eight publicly available polls shows Broun leading a crowded GOP field with 27 percent of the vote. Following him are fellow Reps. Phil Gingrey (R-Ga.) with 15.9 percent, and Jack Kingston (R-Ga.) with 12.1 percent.
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