House Speaker Bill Howell on McDonnell corruption conviction

Virginia House of Delegates Speaker Bill Howell issued the following statement Thursday on the trial of former Governor Bob McDonnell.

“This is a sad day for Virginia. I have known Bob McDonnell for a long time and consider him a very good friend of mine. He spent 38 years in public service and his record as Governor speaks for itself. I believe in the justice system and I am not going second guess the jury. The jury rendered its verdict and the McDonnells have an opportunity to appeal. That’s the way the system works. I am proud to call Bob McDonnell my friend and I pray for him and his family during this difficult time.”