Witnesses Can’t Recall Much in Second Day of Easley Hearings

Charlotte developer, Easley’s former treasurer testify about relationships

RALEIGH (By David Bass, Carolina Journal Online) — Forgetfulness was a recurring theme through a second day of a hearing Tuesday in the North Carolina Board of Elections’ ongoing investigation into alleged campaign finance wrongdoing by former Gov. Mike Easley.

In response to dozens of questions from lawyers and board members, four witnesses testified they couldn’t remember much about their political and personal relationships with the former governor, including details about fundraising strategies, campaign donations, and political patronage.

The hearings were in stark contrast to the day before, when witnesses offered a variety of anecdotes and tidbits about Easley’s conduct while in office, such as accusations that Easley diverted campaign funds to repair his personal residence in Raleigh.