FBI Questions Governor

Agents for the Federal Bureau of Investigation have interviewed Governor McGreevey about the gay sex scandal that led McGreevey to announce he would resign.

Two people with direct knowledge of the inquiry told The Star-Ledger of Newark the FBI is looking into McGreevey's complaint that he was blackmailed by his lover.

Sources said the interview lasted about two hours and took place at the governor's mansion, Drumthwacket, on Friday. McGreevey's criminal lawyer was at his side.

U.S. Attorney Chris Christie said that his office is looking into the administration's allegations that Golan Cipel tried to extort millions of dollars from the governor.

Cipel, who said that he is not gay, claimed he was harassed by McGreevey.

Christie declined to say whether his office is looking into an official misconduct charge against the governor in relation to Cipel's hiring as homeland security adviser. Christie suggested state Attorney General Peter Harvey would also have jurisdiction in that matter.

A spokesman for the Attorney General's Office refused to comment.

Corzine Won't Lobby For Early McGreevey Departure

U.S. Sen. Jon Corzine was in Atlantic City Tuesday, reacquainting himself with hundreds of state labor leaders who could be instrumental if the senator decides to run for governor next year.

Corzine used the speech to the annual convention of the New Jersey State Building and Construction Trades Council to stump for John Kerry. He also stood by McGreevey's decision to remain in office until Nov. 15.

Later, Corzine told reporters he won't decide on a possible gubernatorial bid in 2005 until after the Nov. 2 election.

Corzine again sidestepped questions on whether he would prefer to see McGreevey out of office in time to force a special election this year.

Labor delegates at the convention approved a resolution supporting McGreevey.

Article continues below

---

advertisement

---

Author: NBC10/AP