Stevens Addresses Indictment Charges In Anchorage
The Senator will continue on with his campaign efforts through out the week. File photo, Alaska Superstation ABC®.
by
Jamey Kirk
Story Created:
Aug 4, 2008 at 12:57 PM AKST
Story Updated:
Oct 12, 2010 at 4:06 PM AKST
Appearing in Anchorage for the first time since his indictment, Senator Ted Stevens gave a speech to a crowd of supporters. Stevens arrived at the airport that shares his name, where he was escorted by leather-clad bikers who had volunteered to help Stevens make an entrance.
"I am innocent of the case that's been made against me, the charges that have been made against me," Stevens told his supporters. "But the way this case has been handled by the judge has renewed my confidence in our constitutional judicial system I believe it will vindicate me... I was so confident of that that my lawyer on my behalf asked for a speedy trail so the case would be over before the general election."
"By scheduling the trial for next month this court has made it possible for all Alaskans to know the facts of the case and make up their own mind. They will be the ultimate jury before they cast their votes in November," Stevens said.
September 24 is the tentative date set for the trial in Washington D.C.
Addressing supporters concerns over the upcoming election, Stevens said the immediate focus has to be on the August 26 Republican primary. "The primary is the goal right now. Help me win that primary and help me be the candidate for the Republican party. September will take care of itself," Stevens told the crowd.
Over 100 people showed up for the rally, including Bob Penney, Carl Marrs, George Wuerch, Don Smith and Bill Sheffield.
Stevens announced that he would head to Fairbanks to listen to the speech given by President George W. Bush at Eielson Air Force Base. After the speech, Steven's stated that he would return to Anchorage and spend the next few days campaigning. Joining Stevens will be long time friend, Hawaii Democratic Senator Dan Inouye.
Stevens would not field questions from reporters.
