The 2015 General Assembly convened on Wednesday with an undercurrent of drama. Ostracized by his former party leaders and denounced by others, newly re-elected Democrat-turned-Independent Delegate Joe Morrissey left his jail cell and returned to his legislative office. Morrissey acknowledges that many colleagues don't want him there after his misdemeanor conviction. But the embattled delegate says his constituents DO want him there -and he's preparing to fight for that.
Republican House Speaker Bill Howell and Democratic leaders say they have several options to address Morrissey's "Contributing to the Delinquency of a Minor" conviction. The Speaker made a subtle reference as he presided over the House.
“Our fellow citizens demand honor, integrity, and civility. I would encourage each of us, Republicans and Democrats alike, to renew our commitment to meet these standards.
Morrissey says he knows there are challenges ahead and he's gearing up for them.
“I am going to take it each a battle at a time. The most important thing, though, is that the voters of the 74th district spoke.”
Some political analysts suggest that while lawmakers may be exploring ways to expel Morrissey, they may wait until the session nears its end.
The House of Delegates has the option of expelling a member, which requires a two-thirds vote of the House.
