Bob McDonnell is the first Virginia governor convicted of a felony. A federal jury today convicted Bob and Maureen McDonnell on multiple counts in their corruption trial in U.S. District Court.
Bob McDonnell was convicted on 11 of 13 counts. The former first lady was convicted on nine of 13 counts.
Whether you were in the McDonnells’ corner or thought they tainted the highest state office, one thing is certain: The trial poured gasoline on the heated issue of gift-giving and ethics reform. The message that federal prosecutors have sent is that "Everybody does it" will no longer be acceptable.
But...lawmakers already traveled down this road—early this year. One bill banned donations to thegovernor and his PAC from anyone seeking Governor’s Opportunity funding. But since he thought it should also apply to legislators, Governor McAuliffe vetoed it.
The bill that did become law caps the tangible gifts that an official may accept from someone to $250 per year and requires disclosure of gifts to family members. But Democratic Delegate Mark Sickles says all types of gifts should be covered.
The trial also suggests that officials should be careful about accepting gifts even from friends.
Lawmakers did create an Ethics Advisory Council. The governor vetoed the funding—saying he wants a stricter law to be passed next year.
