Closing one of the most disturbing incidents in modern politics, a Montana judge on Monday sentenced millionaire Republican Congressman-elect Greg Gianforte to community service and counseling after Gianforte pleaded guilty to misdemeanor assault.
The charges stem from a May 24 incident in Montana. On the eve of a closely watched special election, Gianforte attacked Ben Jacobs, a reporter with the Guardian, “body slamming” him after Jacobs attempted to question him about the controversial Obamacare repeal bill passed by House Republicans.
According to Mother Jones, Gianforte was sentenced to 40 hours of community service and 20 hours of anger management counseling, along with a $385 fines and fees. The judge had considered a four-day prison sentence, to boot, but suspended the sentence.
Recap: Gianforte's sentence is 6 months deferred, 40 hours community service, 20 hours anger management, $385 fine/fees. #mtpol #mtal
— Whitney Bermes (@wabermes) June 12, 2017
In a separate civil case settlement, Gianforte agreed to pay $50,000 to the Committee to Protect Journalists.
Incredibly, Gianforte ended up winning the special election. He apologized to the reporter during his acceptance speech. He also issued a letter to Jacobs last week.
“My physical response to your legitimate question was unprofessional, unacceptable, and unlawful,” Gianforte said in the letter.
“I made a mistake and humbly ask for your forgiveness. I acknowledge that the media have an obligation to seek information. I had no right to respond the way I did to your legitimate question about healthcare policy. You were doing your job.”
Republicans are literally at war with reporters with President Trump leading the attacks.
The American people must stay vigilant. The rise of a dictatorship begins by silencing the press.
Spread the word.
