Roanoke Times
Copyright (c) 1995, Landmark Communications, Inc.
DATE: THURSDAY, July 19, 1990 TAG: 9007190583
SECTION: NATIONAL/INTERNATIONAL PAGE: A/2 EDITION: EVENING
SOURCE: Associated Press
DATELINE: WASHINGTON LENGTH: Medium
The Minnesota Republican said he would repay the money as a "tangible sign of my regret."
The committee unanimously approved a resolution Wednesday saying that Durenberger "knowingly and willingly" violated Senate rules through financial dealings that were "unequivocally unethical."
Leaders of the Senate say they hope to put the recommendations to a vote by the time Congress leaves for its August recess.
Senate historians say that denouncing or censuring a colleague is the most serious disciplinary action senators can take short of expulsion.
The committee said Durenberger should reimburse the Senate $29,050 plus interest for improper payments on his Minneapolis condominium and give to charity about $95,000 that he collected in excess speaking fees. That amount would be reduced by whatever taxes he has already paid on the income.
Durenberger has incurred more than $500,000 in legal fees.
The panel referred its findings, without making any recommendations, to Senate Republicans, who could strip Durenberger of any positions of party responsibility.
The findings also will go to federal agencies, including the Justice Department and Federal Election Commission.
"Of all the thousands of words that have been written or spoken during 23 months of investigation, news coverage and commentary, only three are appropriate today: I am sorry," Durenberger said in a brief statement after committee leaders announced their recommendation.
"I accept the committee's direction to make restitution as a tangible sign of my regret and continuing commitment to the people of Minnesota," he said.
Durenberger's popularity has plummeted in Minnesota, according to opinion polls, but he has said he will not resign. He does not face re-election until 1994.
The Ethics Committee found the following violations, which it said "brought the Senate into dishonor and disrepute":
A book contract with Piranha Press that Durenberger used to collect $100,000 in speaking fees over the Senate's limits on honoraria.
Real estate transactions involving his Minneapolis condominium so he could obtain reimbursement from the Senate for staying there.
His failure to report the receipt of travel expenses in connection with his book-promotion appearances and trips to the Boston area, where he made speeches to coincide with visits to his marriage counselor.
His discussions about the condominium with the trustee of his blind trust.
Acceptance of free limousine service in violation of Senate gift limits.
Conversion of a $5,000 campaign contribution to personal use.
The committee's vice chairman, Sen. Warren Rudman, R-N.H., told reporters that the panel found a pattern of misconduct in his book and condominium deals. "Taken in their totality, the committee decided unanimously that they merited, regretfully, this severe punishment," Rudman said.
Although the matters were referred to the FEC and Justice Department, Rudman said there was "no finding of criminality anywhere in the report."
Rudman and committee Chairman Howell Heflin, D-Ala., said they intentionally did not recommend any specific action to Republican senators.
"That is not a proper matter for the Ethics Committee. That is a Republican Party matter," Rudman said.
by CNB