A confirmation hearing for Guam Land Use Commission nominee Gerald Yingling got heated, as Senator Chris Barnett scrutinized the Governor’s pick.

The former Guam International Airport Authority Executive Manager was convicted in 2005 of unauthorized use of a government credit card and official misconduct, but was acquitted of any criminal wrongdoing years later.

The Guam Supreme Court found there was no evidence to prove that he did anything unrelated to his official business.

“I purchased a room for my chairman in Seoul, Korea and it was ratified. But that never came out. So I was vindicated,” said Yingling.

“Right. So you went to the court and it was determined that you didn’t make any purchases that were illegal or improper,” said Barnett.

“It was proper. It was approved by the board,” responded Yingling.

“So are you disputing the $100 steaks and the stripclubs,” said Barnett.

“No stripclubs and no $100 steaks,” said Yingling.

Barnett also brought up the Governor’s decision to recently dismiss two CHamoru Land Trust commissioners.

“One of the rules for the CHamoru Land Trust Commissioners is that they are not allowed to be, you know, in a perfect world, they’re not supposed to be victims of political persecution or political influence. Are we going to have that type of issue if you are confirmed to the Guam Land Use Commission, one way or the other,” asked Barnett.

“I’m not a yes man if that’s what you’re asking. I do what I think is right and I can walk away from something that I don’t think is right. That’s my full answer,” said Yingling.
Yingling was nominated last January.

Senators are expected to vote on his nomination during the session.