U.S. Rep. Robert Brady’s two indicted political strategists put forth a united front Wednesday, denying that they had committed crimes and vowing to give prosecutors a bruising fight at trial.Making their first appearance in federal court, Ken Smukler, 57, and Donald “D.A.” Jones, 62, pleaded not guilty to charges that they had conspired to hide a $90,000 payment from Brady’s campaign five years ago to persuade a primary challenger to drop out of the race.
Speaking after the hearing, their lawyers did not deny that both men helped shepherd money to Brady’s opponent – former Philadelphia Municipal Court Judge Jimmie Moore – in 2012 but maintained that neither had done anything illegal.
As for the question circling Smukler and Jones since they were charged Tuesday – whether the indictment might persuade either to reverse course, agree to cooperate, and bring investigators a step closer to Brady – Smukler lawyer Brian McMonagle sent a clear signal with his statements.
2. Ever wondered why Bob Brady, Congress swamp rat, decided against seeking re-election? Mainly because he may well be corrupt. Meet a Brady crony, subject of indictment above - Kenneth Smukler :https://t.co/I2mgfJ96XZ— Vachel Lindsay (@_VachelLindsay_) March 21, 2018