Connecticut gov owns 'incorrect' statement

Massachusetts Sun Saturday 13th December, 2003

Connecticut's governor has admitted to giving false and misleading information when questioned earlier this month about work done on his private cottage.

Republican Gov. John G. Rowland, whose administration has been engulfed in federal corruption investigations for much of the last four years, admitted Friday that his claim to have paid for work on his lakeside retreat was false, the New York Times reported Saturday.

Rowland admitted to having work done free, having other work paid for by aides, and receiving gifts from people in his employ, most notably a hot tub Rowland had pointedly said he bought himself.

In the limited, spontaneous remarks I made about the cottage and repairs, I provided information that was incorrect and incomplete, Rowland said in a statement released late Friday.

At least one lawmaker called for Rowland to step down, and several state newspapers also called for his resignation.

Some Republicans and former Rowland aides still loyal to the governor said they were not sure if he could govern effectively given the cloud of corruption over his administration, the Times said.