Sen. John Ensign tapped his parents to pay out nearly $100,000 to the family of his mistress out of his private funds, his lawyer says in an e-mail.
The gifts, the statement says, are part of a pattern of "generosity" on the part of the senator's family to the Hampton family, which he nearly destroyed.
Statement on behalf of Senator John Ensign:In April 2008, Senator John Ensign's parents each made gifts to Doug Hampton, Cindy Hampton, and two of their children in the form of a check totaling $96,000. Each gift was limited to $12,000. The payments were made as gifts, accepted as gifts and complied with tax rules governing gifts.
After the Senator told his parents about the affair, his parents decided to make the gifts out of concern for the well-being of long-time family friends during a difficult time. The gifts are consistent with a pattern of generosity by the Ensign family to the Hamptons and others.
None of the gifts came from campaign or official funds nor were they related to any campaign or official duties. Senator Ensign has complied with all applicable laws and Senate ethics rules.
Paul Coggins
Fish & Richardson P.C.
Counsel for Senator John Ensign |