Q: Did congressman Greg Gianforte of Montana make a conciliatory contribution to a charity of reporter Ben Jacobs’ choice?
–Tom Hundley, Peachtree City
A: In a June 7, 2017, letter, Gianforte apologized to Jacobs, a Guardian newspaper reporter, and claimed full responsibility for his conduct on May 24. Gianforte was charged with assault the day before his May 25 election to the U.S. House, after Jacobs said the candidate "body slammed" him when he asked a question.
Gianforte wrote that he is “making a $50,000 contribution to the Committee to Protect Journalists, an independent nonprofit organization that promotes press freedom and that protects the rights of journalists worldwide” in the hope that something good would come of the event. The committee did not respond to an inquiry to confirm receipt of the contribution.
“My physical response to your legitimate question was unprofessional, unacceptable and unlawful,” he wrote. “I understand the critical role that journalists and the media play in our society. … I had no right to respond the way I did to your legitimate question about health care policy. You were doing your job.”
In exchange, Jacobs agreed not to sue Gianforte, CBS News reported.
After reaching the civil settlement with Jacobs, Gianforte requested a court hearing in Montana and on June 12 pleaded guilty to a misdemeanor assault charge. He was sentenced to six months of deferred jail time, 40 hours of community service, 20 hours of anger management sessions and $385 in fines and court fees, according to news reports.
Fast Copy News Service wrote this column; Keith Still contributed. Do you have a question? We’ll try to get the answer. Call 404-222-2002 or email q&a@ajc.com (include name, phone and city).
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