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Maryland Senators Questions in Slot Inquiry

MARYLAND -- As reported by the Associated Press: "Three Maryland state senators say they were interviewed by FBI agents in an inquiry into the Senate president's fund-raising efforts and the push for slot machine gambling.

"Senate President Thomas V. Mike Miller has been a leader in the so-far unsuccessful effort to legalize slot machines at racetracks in Maryland, and the FBI is reportedly examining whether the money he solicited from a racetrack owner played any role in his support.

"…FBI agents are also expected to interview an official from former Lt. Gov. Kathleen Kennedy Townsend's failed campaign for governor, The Washington Post reported. That interview also will focus on fund-raising and slots.

"Two of the state senators, Edward Kasemeyer and James DeGrange Sr., played pivotal roles on the committee that approved the slots legislation. Sen. John Giannetti Jr. was an outspoken supporter of Gov. Robert Ehrlich's effort to bring slots to racetracks. All three are Democrats. Giannetti said agents asked about the relationship between Miller and racetrack executive Joseph De Francis.

"…Sources told the Post that Miller's attorneys have told the FBI that some of the money was raised by Karen White, a top campaign adviser to former Gov. Parris Glendening and Townsend. Miller has previously acknowledged meeting De Francis to ask for money and has said the transaction was arranged by staff members on his committee…"

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