News

December 22, 2009

Reaction to Eachus situation mixed

A political foe of state Rep. Todd Eachus said Tuesday’s Associated Press report that the House majority leader directed state employees to work on political campaigns “sounds serious,” while a colleague called him a “stellar guy.”
Republican Hazleton Mayor Lou Barletta said until Eachus is charged, he would reserve further comment. Barletta is a candidate for the GOP nomination in the 11th Congressional District.
“On this report, all I can say is that it does sound very serious,” Barletta said. “I hope it’s not true; it’s a matter for the criminal justice system and my thoughts and prayers are with his family.”
Rep. Eddie Day Pashinski, D-Wilkes-Barre, said he does not know Eachus’ accuser – John Paul Jones – who testified before the grand jury in what has commonly become known as the Bonusgate investigation.
“As far as my experience with Rep. Eachus from 2006 on, he has been a stellar guy working for the people and for the Northeastern Pennsylvania Legislative Caucus,” Pashinski said. “I have absolutely no knowledge of any of the information in the (AP) story. I have never been approached by Todd regarding any of these matters.”
Michael Barley, spokesman for the state Republican Party, issued a brief statement on the AP report.
“Ensuring that our taxpayer dollars are protected is a nonpartisan issue, and we commend the attorney general for his work to root out corruption in Pennsylvania,” Barley said. “As it pertains to details on this specific case, we have to refer you to his office.”
Eachus, D-Butler Township, declined comment on the probe. His spokesman, Brett Marcy, e-mailed this statement on Monday: “I received a note that you are looking for a comment from Rep. Eachus regarding the Capitol corruption probe. Our official response: No comment.”
When contacted Tuesday evening, Marcy again offered “no comment” when asked about the Associated Press report.
For more information, read Wednesday's Times Leader.

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