Critic of Gambling Won But Didn’t Report Those Earnings

Former state Rep. Mark McNaughton has opposed gambling in Philadelphia but it was recently reported that he won several thousand dollars but never reported it to state ethic forms. He did report it to tax officials but some think he’s a hypocrite.

McNaughton said he didn’t report his gambling winnings on the ethics disclosure statement for lawmakers because he didn’t believe it was required. However, the State Ethics Commission says it considers such winnings income, which legislators must note on annual disclosure forms if it exceeds $1,300.

He said Friday that he was only acting on the wishes of his constituents when he opposed efforts to expand gambling in Pennsylvania.

“Gambling should not be everywhere. It should be a destination-oriented activity where you go there and enjoy the day or two and return,” he said. “I don’t believe it’s in the best interests of citizens to be able to walk across the street and play slots.”