Pennsylvania Treasurer Rob McCord, a Democrat, plead guilty to “federal charges stemming from attempts in 2014 to use the influence of his office to gain campaign contributions from prospective donors.” McCord threatened to use his position as state Treasurer to “make things difficult” for potential contributors that do not donate to his campaign. Pittsburgh Post Gazette,
His ability to “make things difficult” for prospective donors is tied to the power of his office — the treasurer directs the selection of banks where state funds are deposited, serves on boards that oversee state pension funds, and has a say in how the funds are managed and invested.
Mr. McCord, who ran unsuccessfully for governor in 2014, said he would resign immediately…
Mr. McCord’s attorneys, Robert Welsh and Catherine Recker, said in their statement they expect Mr. McCord will plead guilty to federal charges that will be filed soon in U.S. District Court for the Middle District of Pennsylvania in Harrisburg. Ms. Recker said she was unable to discuss the specific charges Friday and said there was no agreement on Mr. McCord’s sentence. She said it was unknown if he would serve prison time.
They said Mr. McCord acknowledged he had “overstepped the line of legitimate political fundraising” immediately upon being contacted by federal agents.
