DeLeo's Statement On DiMasi Verdict

 Statement released from Speaker Bob DeLeo. To me, too defensive and focused on how people perceive him and the house, rather than on DiMasi, but that's just my quick take.

Today's news delivers a powerful blow to the public's trust in government. I don‟t think I can imagine anything more damaging than the idea that the defendant's conduct was nothing other than 'business as usual' on Beacon Hill. This was definitely not business as usual – and it is a slur on every hardworking public servant to suggest otherwise.

One of the things that I find most disturbing – and the thing I am most committed to changing – is the public‟s view of politicians and public sector employees. This conviction makes that job no easier.

What came out at trial was deeply troubling. I feel angry and disappointed.

Given the cumulative effect of recent cases of public corruption, I understand the negative feelings many have for public officials right now. That is something we are working to change. Our efforts over the past couple of years have been focused on government reforms that make our work and our decisions more transparent and ensure that we can be held accountable for what we do on behalf of the taxpaying public.

As we move away from this verdict – in our actions and in our deeds – we will work to restore the public's faith that public servants can be counted on to work for the greater good. I intend to lead by example.