State Representative Larry Inman’s lawyers have asked a court to toss federal bribery charges that could land him in prison for 20 years. Inman is trying to fend off claims that he asked unions for campaign donations in exchange for votes.
The Traverse City Republican’s lawyers said if there’s a problem, it’s that money plays a very big role in campaigning and lawmaking.
A brief filed by his lawyers say the charges are vague and it would be too easy for any legislator to run afoul of the law.
The legal brief said the Legislature could not operate without campaign money. That’s because the funds are used for ads to persuade voters that either Republicans or Democrats should be in charge.
The brief also named two other legislators. And it said they could face similar charges if Inman is tried and convicted of soliciting money for a GOP campaign fund in exchange for his vote.
The state House has asked Inman to resign. So far, he has refused.
