Former Congressman Traficant Released From Prison; Former Constituents To Throw Party Welcoming Him Home

After seven years behind bars, one of the most colorful Congressmen of recent years is now a free man. Former Ohio Rep. James Traficant walked out of prison after being convicted on bribery, tax evasion and obstruction of justice charges in 2002. Traficant will remain on probation for three years.

Although Traficant refused to disclose what he would do, there are rumors that he may host a talk show where his offbeat, flamboyant style will serve him well.

When the House Ethics Committee debated expelling him from Congress, Traficant responded, “I think they’re delusionary. I think they have had something funny for lunch in their meal. I think they should be handcuffed to a chain-link fence, flogged, and all of their hearsay evidence should be thrown the hell out, and if they lie again, I’m going to go over and kick them in the crotch. Thank you very much.”

Traficant is part of a highly exclusive club. He is only one of five members of Congress ever to have been expelled from it. The vote against Traficant is telling in itself. He was expelled 420-1.

In the 1980’s, while sheriff of Youngstown, Traficant was tried by the federal justice department for accepting bribes. He was acquitted. Then, he was later elected to Congress nine times.

Traficant remains popular in his former Congressional district. His supporters are holding a Sunday bash to welcome him home. The tickets have sold for $20 and, get this, 1,150 have been scooped up. Recommended attire is Traficantesque – skinny ties, denim suits and bell-bottom pants. Dedicated believers in Traficant can even get a T-shirt with his picture on it. 900 have already been sold.