More problems in Rep. Thomas Wright Probe

Caught up in North Carolina's new ethics rules, an investigation continues into personal finances and possible conflicts that could jeopordize Wright's political situation. According toNoah Pickus, interim director of the Kenan Institute for Ethics at Duke University, "the important issue is whether the state's new ethics system is tough and independent enough to address any actual conflicts that could arise out of Wright's case. The guy's financial situation creates a potential conflict," Pickus explained, "but potential conflicts are for the voters to judge."

News and Observer
March 15, 2007
Mark Johnson, The Charlotte Observer

Fiscal woes cloud Wright probe
House member's finances wobbly

RALEIGH - Rep. Thomas Wright, under criminal investigation by the State Board of Elections, has run into enough financial difficulties that lenders have threatened or begun foreclosure proceedings multiple times in the past six years.

Wright also persuaded another legislator, Sen. R.C. Soles of Tabor City, to buy a Wright family home before creditors sold it, Soles said.

Wright, a Wilmington Democrat and an ally of former House Speaker Jim Black, refused to answer questions Wednesday about his finances.

"I don't think I need to talk with you about my personal business," he said. Read more...