Former Rep. Thad McCotter, the Michigan Republican who resigned last year after aides submitted forged nominating petitions, now alleges one aide was bribed to sabotage the congressman’s political career.
In a complaint filed with a local U.S. bankruptcy court, McCotter alleges his former aide, Don Yowchuang, was “motivated by the promise of financial gain” when he submitted nominating petitions for the then-congressman’s re-election with duplicate signatures, according to The Detroit News.
The complaint claims that Yowchuang needed funds to repay $20,000 that he allegedly embezzled from his fraternity at Central Michigan University, per the local newspaper.
“He definitely wants to be vindicated,” David Ottenwess, McCotter’s attorney, told The Detroit News.
The scandal effectively ended the former presidential candidate and congressman’s political career. McCotter resigned last year, paving the way for reindeer rancher and veteran Kerry Bentivolio to win the GOP nod and eventually the general election in the 11th District.
, Bentivolio faces a formidable primary opponent in attorney David Trott. Former State Department senior adviser Bobby McKenzie, a Democrat, is also running in the contest. Democrats are also
in attorney David Trott. Former State Department senior adviser Bobby McKenzie, a Democrat, is also running in the contest. Democrats are also hoping to recruit Wayne State University Law School interim Dean Jocelyn Benson.
Michigan’s 11th District is rated a Republican Favored contest by Rothenberg Political Report/Roll Call.
