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State senator calls for McDonnell to ditch gifts or step down

A spokesman for the governor called the Democrat's letter "blatantly political."

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David Ress | 981-3253

Wednesday, July 3, 2013

State Sen. Chap Petersen has told Gov. Bob McDonnell he should either get rid of gifts from Star Scientific chief executive Jonnie Williams or resign his office.

State officials are supposed to disclose gifts and finances as a way for the public to ensure they are not involved in any of conflicts of interest .

McDonnell did not disclose that Williams picked up a $15,000 tab to cater McDonnell’s daughter’s wedding, or paid for costly clothing for his wife or a $6,500 Rolex watch. Petersen asked McDonnell to disclose those gifts or show that he and his family did not in fact receive them. Petersen is a Democrat from Fairfax who once unsuccessfully sought his party’s nomination for lieutenant governor.

Williams’ company has sued the state seeking to overturn a $1.7 million tax assessment. His company used the Executive Mansion during a promotional event, and McDonnell’s wife has helped promote Star products, as well.

“It appears that you allowed this person to use the Governor’s Mansion and the Governor’s office for the purpose of giving unique credibility to his company,” Petersen wrote in a letter released Tuesday. “This is unacceptable.”

Petersen said McDonnell should either return the gifts, or sell them and turn over the proceeds to the state. “That is the only method by which the public can regain trust in your Office. Without that trust, there is no purpose in continuing to serve,” Petersen said.

“If you are unable to explain (or deny) these reports, or return the items, then I humbly suggest that you should step down as Governor,” Petersen continued.

Tucker Martin, McDonnell’s press secretary, said Peterson’s letter was “blatantly political” and not unexpected after a blog post from the senator complaining that Democratic Party leaders at the recent Jefferson-Jackson Day event didn’t raise the issue.

“The Senator’s letter appears to be premised on unconfirmed and inaccurate media reports,” Martin said.

He said McDonnell has been diligent over the years in making his financial disclosures.

“We are aware of no economic development grants, targeted tax incentives, government contracts or board appointments received by Star Scientific or Jonnie Williams during this Administration,” he added.

Martin said Virginia’s disclosure requirements do not pertain to the families of elected officials.

Saturday, September 14, 2013