Michigan lawmaker: Allegations Are “Character Assassination”

statecapitol-2
statecapitol-2

LANSING, Mich. (AP) – A Michigan lawmaker who’s accused of threatening a legislator over their past romantic relationship is denying her allegations. Republican Representative Steve Marino issued a statement Thursday after Democratic Representative Mari Manoogian suggested his removal from two committees stemmed from their “volatile” relationship. She said she was taking steps to ensure her safety following domestic abuse, including threats of public shaming. Marino says their relationship ended “well over” a year ago. He said the “insinuations made are nothing more than politically motivated character assassination that I am confident will conclude as a waste of the public’s time.”