Federal Judge Clears McDonnells

Those who read this space know my views on Bob McDonnell’s legacy as Governor: I am not a fan.

That doesn’t mean I can’t be happy that federal prosecutors using the ridiculous morass known as “honest service fraud” have – at long last – thrown in the towel (WTKR).

RICHMOND, Va. – A federal judge granted a motion Friday to dismiss the indictments and convictions against former Virginia governor Bob McDonnell and his wife Maureen.

The order says “The Court has considered the Motion and has determined that the Motion should be GRANTED.”

The order goes on to say the indictments are “DISMISSED with prejudice; and it is further ORDERED that all remaining convictions pursuant to the indictment are VACATED.”

Now if only we can get Congress to take a look at the statute that started it all in the first place – and send it to the ashheap of history where it belongs – then, perhaps, the McDonnells can take some solace that they were not prosecuted in vain.

Your move, Speaker Ryan.