Clovis Unified School Board candidate Gina Vue responded late Monday to a voicemail that claimed she was under investigation for insurance fraud, was using her company’s employees to work her campaign in violation of election laws, and that she was “hiding left-leaning donors.” The voicemail also called her a Democrat.

Vue, who owns an autism center and is running in the Area 4 race against incumbent Hugh Awtrey, said late Monday in an emailed statement that the robocalls circulated “blatant lies” about her and her campaign.

“These attacks are mothing more than desperate attempts to distract from my student-centered, community-focused campaign,” the statement said.

Vue said in the statement, she has always been a registered Republican and remains committed to conservative values.

‘False and Defamatory’

Claims that she is under investigation for insurance fraud are “absolutely false and defamatory,” Vue, who owns Innovative Minds ABA, LLC, said in the statement.

“These baseless accusations are a direct attack on my life’s work and dedication to the children and families I serve. As the proud owner of three autism centers, I have built my business on hard work, honest and integrity, helping children with autism reach their fullest potential. I have always prioritized the well-being of the children we serve, and I will bring the same dedication and commitment to Clovis Unified if elected.”

Vue continued by saying in the statement, “These attacks show exactly why I am running: Our students need a leader who will stand up to lies, distortion, and special interest agendas. I am not backed by major corporations or political insiders; I am committed solely to representing the students and families of Clovis Unified. My campaign is focused entirely on creating the best educational environment possible — one that fosters academic excellence, integrity, and opportunity for every student.”

Awtrey did not immediately respond to a request for comment Tuesday.

Widespread Distribution of Robocall

The voicemail that went out Sunday, which appeared to have come from an Avenal phone number, did not identify the sender or whether it was paid for by a political action committee or campaign. It was sent out to voters outside Area 4, which is in northeast and east portions of the City of Clovis.

Here is a transcription of the voicemail: “This is a critical voter alert for residents of Clovis Unified School District Area 4. Democratic candidate Gina Vue is currently under investigation for allegedly engaging in insurance fraud by misusing federal and state Medicaid funding to pay campaign workers under the table at her for-profit medical company. Gina Vue is also alleged to be hiding a variety of left-leaning donors to her campaign, which is a violation of California law. We deserve leaders on the School Board who follow the law. On Tuesday, send a message and vote no on Gina Vue.”