The state House General Counsel’s recommendation of censure for state Representative Cindy Gamrat may not be enough to prevent expulsion from the House.
Gongwer News Service Editor Zach Gorchow joined WMUK’s Gordon Evans Thursday morning to discuss how the scandal involving Gamrat and Courser reached this point. Gorchow says the use of state resources to cover up an extra-marital affair and alienation from their colleagues in the state House set the stage where both lawmakers could be removed from office.
Both Gamrat and Courser showed contrition in their testimony before the committee formed to recommend disciplinary action against them. Gorchow says it helps to “not be in denial.” But he says at the same time, they have essentially “pled guilty.” Gorchow says members of the committee were especially skeptical of Courser’s show of contrition during his testimony on Wednesday. Gorchow says in Courser’s case, there have been too many clashes with his fellow lawmakers to have much credibility now.
Gamrat asked for censure as well on Tuesday and for forgiveness from the committee and the House. But Gorchow says Gamrat has also alienated herself from fellow lawmakers. Earlier this year House Speaker Kevin Cotter barred Gamrat from House Republican caucus meetings. Gorchow was interviewed live on WestSouthwest Thursday morning.
Shortly after that the special state House Committee considering discipline for both lawmakers voted to recommend expulsion for both Gamrat and Courser.
