John Murtha has died

[Bann (Premo)]

FNC is reporting that John Murtha (D-PA) has died. Complications from a gall bladdar surgery. (at a hospital in Arlington, VA)

[blacklabman]

Another chance for the GOP is get another seat, in the house this time. One step at a time.

[jetmonkey]

I just saw a tv show about his airport

[Aerogal]

Wow. I guess even the best insurance can't guarantee clean surgery.

[Baja28 (Premo)]

Good Riddance!!!

[Aerogal]

Just goes to show how even a decorated Korean & Vietnam War Marine can be corrupted by power and endless terms in DC -

[jetmonkey]

Originally Posted by Aerogal

Just goes to show how even a decorated Korean & Vitamin War Marine can be corrupted by power and endless terms in DC -

fixed

[Rommey]

You know that regardless how you viewed Murtha as a politician, its a bit callous to be celebrating his death. Show a bit of respect.

[Aerogal]

Originally Posted by Aerogal

Just goes to show how even a decorated Korean & Vietnam War Marine can be corrupted by power and endless terms in DC -

fixed - I meant Vietnam

[Aerogal]

Originally Posted by Rommey

You know that regardless how you viewed Murtha as a politician, its a bit callous to be celebrating his death. Show a bit of respect.

From Fox News:

A hint of scandal lingered over much of Murtha's career. The FBI named Murtha an "unindicted co-conspirator" in its ABSCAM sting operation in the late 1970s and early '80s. ABSCAM resulted in the conviction of five House members and one senator. The FBI recorded Murtha on videotape declining a $50,000 bribe from federal agents posing as Arab sheiks. But the congressman did say he could be interested in future dealings.

Nicknamed "The King of Pork," Murtha also faced scrutiny for earmarking federal dollars for projects in his district. Numerous news reports lambasted the congressman for steering money to the John Murtha Johnstown-Cambria County Airport. The facility received $150 million from Washington for upgrades despite limited commercial use. But the airport is also used for military purposes.

The congressman also faced scrutiny for campaign contributions he and other appropriators received from the now defunct PMA lobbying firm. Murtha scored nearly $2.5 million in donations from PMA and its clients over a nearly 20-year period. The feds continue to scrutinize PMA. The Office of Congressional Ethics asked the House ethics committee to drop any inquiries into the dealings Murtha had with PMA.