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Bloomberg
Virginia Gov. Bob McDonnell
Virginia Gov. Bob McDonnell on Tuesday announced he has repaid nearly $125,000 in personal loans from a well-connected Virginia businessman and apologized for the "embarrassment" the scandal has brought upon the Commonwealth.
Those loans, from Star Scientific CEO Jonnie R. Williams, along with the reported favors that money may have curried the Glen Allen-based dietary supplement company, threaten to sink the Republican McDonnell's political career.
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"I am deeply sorry for the embarrassment certain members of my family and I brought upon my beloved Virginia and her citizens," McDonnell said in a statement. "I want you to know that I broke no laws and that I am committed to regaining your sacred trust and confidence. I hope today's action is another step toward that end."
Per the statement, the repayments include $52,278.17 for a loan made to Virginia first lady Maureen McDonnell in 2011 and $71,837 for two additional loans made in 2012 to a real estate business owned jointly by the governor and his sister.
The money to repay the loans came from the governor, the real estate business or McDonnell's family.
The Washington Post has done some excellent reporting on this scandal. This timeline is particularly helpful.
Michael Neibauer covers economic development, chambers of commerce, transportation and politics.
