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July 20, 2007 - 6:48AM
Romley is right man for job
Tribune Editorial
Rick Romley has a solid reputation for getting things done. That track record took him to Washington, and it may take him back again.
After serving as Maricopa County attorney, Romley was asked by federal officials to assist with the investigation into the theft of 26.5 million veterans’ personal information. Romley took a break from the case to return to Arizona to serve as an independent investigator in the case against Pinal County Manager Stanley Griffis, who is serving a 3½-year sentence for theft, fraud and tax fraud. As reported today by the Tribune’s Mark Flatten, Romley was headed back to D.C. to serve as special assistant to Veterans’ Affairs Secretary Jim Nicholson, but Nicholson resigned last week. Now some Arizona lawmakers have bigger plans for Romley — they’re pitching him for secretary of Veterans’ Affairs.
Sen. Jon Kyl, R-Ariz., is quietly promoting Romley for the job in the Senate. Rep. Harry Mitchell, D-Ariz., tossed Romley’s name into the hat in a letter sent Wednesday to President Bush. Mitchell highlighted Romley’s military background, including his Purple Heart commendation and his being honored by Disabled American Veterans as Disabled Veteran of the Year in 2001. Mitchell also noted Republican Romley’s ability to work in a bipartisan manner to craft solutions for the benefit those he serves — voters and taxpayers.
Romley seems a more than adequate candidate for the job. He’s a veteran who was wounded in battle, so he has credibility with those who have served our nation and deserve top-quality services and assistance. He has worked with VA officials, so he has a grasp of the ropes within the department. He also understands the political aspects of government work.
Romley recently completed an assignment to assist Arizona Attorney General Terry Goddard’s staff. Goddard said of Romley: “From his advice on major cases to his work on legislative matters, the state of Arizona has benefited from his counsel and sound judgment.”
So could Veterans’ Affairs.
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