Embattled Connecticut Governor Resigns

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Guardian snip:
Tuesday June 22, 2004 3:31 PM


AP Photo HF102

By DIANE SCARPONI

Associated Press Writer

NEW HAVEN, Conn. (AP) - Once a GOP rising star, Gov. John G. Rowland is stepping down amid swirling corruption allegations, giving both Republicans and Democrats hope that they can somehow emerge stronger from the long-brewing scandal.

In a short speech Monday that barely touched on his legal difficulties, Rowland said he would leave office next week. He becomes the first U.S. governor in seven years to resign under pressure.

Democrats hope Rowland's resignation will give them a better chance to reclaim the governor's office in 2006, while Republicans hope Rowland's departure came soon enough to give the party a chance to rebuild.

Lt. Gov. M. Jodi Rell, a Republican, will be elevated to governor when Rowland's resignation takes effect at noon on July 1. But she hasn't said if she would seek the office in her own right when it's up for election in 2006.
More:
http://www.guardian.co.uk/uslatest/story/0,1282,-4232369,00.html

Edit:
Addendum:

AP: Feds Notify Rowland Aide of Charges
UPDATED - Tuesday June 15, 2004 7:39pm

HARTFORD, Conn. (AP) - Gov. John G. Rowland's former chief of staff has been put on notice to expect a federal indictment this summer, The Associated Press has learned.

Peter Ellef, who has been investigated as part of the corruption probe for more than a year, would be the highest ranking member of Rowland's inner circle to be indicted. Ellef oversaw construction projects the FBI (website) has been scrutinizing.

Investigators notified Ellef's attorney, Hugh Keefe, of their plans last week, according to a source familiar with the timing of the investigation who spoke to the AP only on condition of anonymity.

Keefe would not confirm that conversation Tuesday, but said, "We've previously been informed that Mr. Ellef is a target of this investigation."
More:
http://www.news8.net/news/stories/0604/153480.html

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