It didn't take long for other politicians to weigh in on the Larry Langford conviction. Here's a statement released by gubernatorial candidate Bradley Byrne:
MONTGOMERY - October 28, 2009 - "The strong verdict delivered so quickly today in the trial of Birmingham Mayor Larry Langford deals another devastating blow to the reputation of Alabama government across the nation and further diminishes the public's confidence in those who have been entrusted with the privilege of serving them.
"It's long past time to bring an end to government corruption and stop any further erosion of Alabama's image by demanding that our lawmakers stop the political gamesmanship and pass meaningful ethics reforms once and for all. Any public official who renounces or stalls a legislative initiative designed to bring honor and trust back to Alabama government simply cannot have the best interest of Alabama and its people at heart.
"If given the opportunity to serve the people of Alabama as governor, my first official act will be to call a special session of the Legislature at the earliest possible date to pass a strong, culture-changing ethics reform package. By putting an end to the scandals, cronyism and corruption that have plagued our state for far too long, we will restore faith and trust in government and give the people of Alabama the kind of honest leadership they deserve.
"Until then, our state will remain mired in cynicism and impeded in progress."
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