Republicans Seek Leniency For Felon Ex-House Rep

Roll Call reports:



Former Speaker John A. Boehner is among a robust contingent of Republicans who want a judge to give convicted former Rep. Chris Collins a break on prison time. The requests for leniency say the New York Republican is a dedicated public servant, father and friend. But the attempt from current and former GOP lawmakers runs contrary to calls from Collins’ former constituents in the 27th Congressional District of New York who say he deserves the maximum penalty.

Reps. Peter T. King of New York, Brian Babin of Texas, Richard Hudson of North Carolina, Roger Williams of Texas, Markwayne Mullin of Oklahoma, and Tom Reed of New York all wrote letters in support of Collins. Other Republicans who wrote in on Collins’ behalf include former Reps. Jack Kingston of Georgia, Todd Rokita of Indiana, Renee Ellmers of North Carolina and Luke Messer of Indiana.