I don’t know whether to be happy or sad about this. As a good-government type, I’m glad to see one of the more, ahem, ethically questionable members of the legislature go bye-bye. Unfortunately, I don’t think Johnny Doc is going to be much better on the ethical front. He’s been part of Philadelphia’s Democratic machine for too long.
On the other hand, Fumo has been an advocate for Philadelphia in a legislature that is often openly hostile to the city.
If only Perzel were caught in a scandal. One would think he was from Potter County or something, given how constantly finds ways to stick it to the city.
Fumo cited the ‘cloud’ of indictment as the main reason for his decision to leave office once his term ends in January. He suffered a heart attack March 2 that sent him to the hospital for a week. He was released on Sunday.
Flanked by his family and Gov. Rendell, Fumo made his announcement at a 25-minute press conference at the Pennsylvania Convention Center.
“I did not make the decision to retire because of health issues but I did take time while recovering in the hospital last week to reassess my life and set a few new priorities. To be frank, the stress of being under indictment has taken a very real emotional toll,” said Fumo, 64.
“There are a number of reasons why I have chosen to retire but above all I simply don’t think it is right for me to ask the voters who have put their faith in me all these years to consider voting for me one more time while there is a cloud hanging over my head.”
At times during his speech, Fumo’s voice cracked with emotion.
This September, Fumo is scheduled to go on trial on a massive 139-count indictment charging him with defrauding taxpayers and two nonprofit organizations, and with attempting a coverup to obstruct the FBI investigation.
He was facing three opponents in the April 22 primary, including a well-financed campaign from labor leader John Dougherty.
People like Fumo are the reason that the legislature is
so often openly hostile to the city.
rendell
by his side again. denaples and now this . what next for fast ed. which candidate does he leave for to be a cabinet position. maybe we need to employ the peter principle and vote for that candidate.
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