Perzel seeks re-election despite charges

The former Pennsylvania house speaker, charged last November in a massive corruption case, is forging ahead with his campaign.

Former Pennsylvania house speaker John Perzel, charged last November in a massive corruption case, is forging ahead with his re-election campaign. [audio: 100219SBPETITION.mp3]

John Perzel was once one of the state’s most powerful lawmakers . Now the Northeast Philadelphia Republican will run for re-election while facing 82 counts of theft, conspiracy and other corruption charges. A grand jury concluded he used tax payer funded computer software to help him and others get re-elected.

Elected officials often rely on party operatives to circulate nominating petitions, and Republican ward leader Chris Vogler says he’s on board .

Vogler: What I’m getting feedback from my neighbors is support for John – of what John has done over the years for the neighborhood, for the city, for the commonwealth, that they’re offering support.  They want him to run again, because they feel he will be vindicated.

Perzel is likely to face a determined opponent in November – several Democrats have said they’re considering running for Perzel’s seat.