McCord Resigns Immediately, Plans To Plead Guilty

By Tony Romeo

HARRISBURG, Pa. (CBS) — A day after announcing his resignation, state Treasurer Rob McCord has made the stunning announcement that he'll plead guilty to federal charges related to campaign donations.

When he first announced his resignation Thursday, he said it was time to return to the private sector. A day later, state Treasurer Rob McCord announced he will plead guilty to charges related to the solicitation of campaign donations. McCord, a Democrat who ran for governor, admits that he communicated to two potential donors last year that if they didn't donate he could make it difficult for them to do business with the state.

"I do hope that over time, people will evaluate my service to the Commonwealth and conclude that I did serve them well and in good faith. But I know my improper efforts to raise campaign contributions will forever be a stain on my record."

In a video statement released by his lawyers, McCord – who'd previously announced plans to step down February 12th – says he's resigning immediately

Governor Tom Wolf released the following statement regarding McCord's resignation:

 "This is a sad day for the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania and for Rob McCord's family. As elected leaders we should be stewards of democracy and we should act to protect hardworking taxpayers, not take advantage of them. This type of behavior leads to the erosion of the public's trust – it is simply unacceptable. I stand firm in my commitment to restore the public's trust in their government. Therefore, I will act as quickly as possible to present a nominee to the Senate of the highest caliber and capability."