Top Democrats Propose Meeting With Beleaguered Governor of Connecticut

HARTFORD, Conn. —  Top Democrats in the state House of Representatives said Tuesday they want to meet next week with Republican Gov. John G. Rowland before deciding whether to pursue his impeachment.

Rowland’s chief of staff and spokesman, Dean Pagani, said Rowland is open to such a meeting, which also would include GOP legislative leaders.

Rowland has been in trouble since admitting he lied about renovation of a lake cottage he owns. Rowland had insisted he paid for the work, but later admitted that a state contractor, friends and employees -- including some being scrutinized as part of a federal investigation -- paid for some of the work in the form of gifts.

In calling for a meeting with Rowland, the Democratic leaders said a “frank discussion” should occur before rank-and-file House Democrats meet Jan. 8 to discuss whether to move forward with impeachment proceedings against the three-term governor.

Democrats control the Legislature. Under the state Constitution, only the House can impeach the governor.

Five Connecticut newspapers, Common Cause of Connecticut, the Connecticut Citizens Action Group and state Democratic Party chairman have called for Rowland to step down.

Pagani said Rowland “has no intention to resign.”

The U.S. attorney’s office is investigating the cottage as part of its probe into alleged bid-rigging within the administration.

“That may be the best path to the truth,” Pagani said.