However, problems would haunt Johnston's governorship from the beginning. Before the state legislature adjourned in May 1927, complaints were raised against Johnston's private secretary, Mrs. O. O. Hammonds. The legislative leaders believed Hammonds held too much power over the governor. It was even believed that she went so far to make executive decisions and appointments in her own right. Believing that Johnston was neglecting his duties, the leaders of the state legislature's demanded that she be immediately discharged from the governor's services.