For Immediate Release:

September 8, 2014


Statement from Randy Gilbert on Unauthorized Release of Private E-mails

Two weeks ago, a media outlet contacted my campaign, inquiring about
private and personal details regarding a past relationship I had with a
women, which ended over two years ago. I began the relationship with
this woman after her divorce proceedings started and her divorce was
finalized as we were dating.

I strongly condemn the public broadcast of illegally-obtained e-mails
furnished by an unnamed third party attempting to harm that partys
former spouse in a contentious legal battle.

It is outrageous and irresponsible for a news outlet or political
opponent trying to gain an advantage in a statewide campaign to seek to
release private messages a court has ruled were innocuous personal
communications obtained unlawfully by an ex-husband twice found in
contempt by a court.

The e-mails reportedly show we had a professional relationship that
became a consensual, personal relationship between adults who did
nothing inappropriate. While I have not seen the e-mails for legitimacy,
the messages also reportedly contain personal exchanges, which at most
would be embarrassing to have revealed to the public.

With increasing threats to Minnesotans personal privacy, it is
indefensible for a news organization of any credibility to be the
vehicle for an angry ex-husband to damage the reputation and career of
his childrens mother and anyone associated with her when the courts
already prohibited that effort.

This is private matter unrelated to my race for State Auditor, and I
will continue focusing on informing voters why I'm the best candidate
for this office.