Personal
Opinion: I would think all Politicians
and all people (male/female) who are in positions of power are a little “oily”
at times. We live in an imperfect world
and we are “flawed” because of our egos, biases or pre-conceived ideas, and
jealousies. And, very few of us do any
kind of introspection outside of being pragmatic and believing the ends justify
the means. If you are honest with
yourself which very few of us are, you will reluctantly admit this is true…
The ex-governor and his wife were accused of trading
official government favors to businessman Jonnie Williams for more than
$165,000 in loans and gifts, including a Rolex watch, luxurious vacations, a
Ferrari ride and a $20,000 New York City shopping spree. Jurors convicted Bob
McDonnell on all 11 corruption counts; Maureen McDonnell was found guilty of
eight corruption counts as well as an obstruction of justice charge. They were
both acquitted on charges of lying on loan documents.
The McDonnells could face lengthy prison terms and
hefty fines; the sentencing is set to take place on Jan. 6, according to news
reports. McDonnell defense attorney Hank Asbill told reporters that the couple
will appeal the verdicts. The former governor himself made a brief comment
outside the court, telling reporters: “All I can say
is my trust belongs in the Lord.”
Assistant Attorney General Leslie R. Caldwell of the
Justice Department said the conviction should be considered a strong warning
against public corruption.
“In pursuit of a lifestyle that they could ill
afford, McDonnell and his wife eagerly accepted luxury items, designer clothes,
free vacations and the businessman’s offer to pay the costs of their daughter’s
wedding,”
Caldwell said in a statement. “In return, McDonnell put the weight of
the governor’s mansion behind the businessman’s corporate interests. The former
governor was elected to serve the people of Virginia, but his corrupt actions
instead betrayed them.” Read more:
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