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Md. Lawmakers Call for Probe of Comcast Ties
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Kendel Ehrlich added: "I hope women are offended by the article."
But Democratic lawmakers said her employment raises valid questions because Comcast does millions of dollars in business with the state and has a stake in a looming battle with rival Verizon Communications over video franchises. And they said they did not expect the first lady to get paid to lecture on social ills that she has made a foundation of her public advocacy.
"These are entanglements that might influence his positions on public policy," said Del. Luiz R.S. Simmons (D-Montgomery). "It's one thing if she was doing this work pro bono. It's another if she's being compensated."
Lawmakers also had concerns about talks Nevins's firm had on behalf of Comcast with the University of Maryland at College Park when Nevins chaired the finance committee of the university system's regents.
"He was a double agent," said Del. Frank S. Turner (D-Howard). "There should be a clear demarcation. I think the Ethics Commission should be looking at his dealings."
Nevins said yesterday that he has "tried very hard, always, to follow both the letter and the spirit of all of Maryland's ethics rules." If the Ethics Commission decides to review his activities, he said, "I would always be fully cooperative."
Other hires included the wife of P. Michael Errico, a senior official in Curry's administration. At the time, Errico was overseeing negotiations with a Comcast rival. Errico said he recused himself and left his post two months later. He said Burch assured him that his wife was hired based on her qualifications.
The company also hired C. Vernon Gray (D), a former Howard council member, as a consultant in 2003. He cited his government experience as part of qualifications. Kenneth N. Harris Sr. (D), a Baltimore City Council member, said his elected office played no role in Comcast's decision to hire him.
