Rector a no-show at GEC hearing

by Mindy Aguon

Guam - Senator Matt Rector was a no-show at Friday morning's hearing at the Guam Election Commission.  Rector's attorney informed the Commission he would not be attending - as required by a subpoena.

The GEC issued to the democrat lawmaker back on December 22. KUAM News has learned Rector sought an extension to respond to the subpoena, asking to be given until March to turn over documents relating to his burglary conviction in California.  The GEC denied the request, saying only the board could approve such. 

With today's failure to appear, the Commission can certify Rector in contempt for not complying with the subpoena. 

GEC Legal Counsel Cesar Cabot said, "Senator Rector violated Guam law and his failure to appear today shows he is blatantly disregarding a subpoena ordering him to come before the GEC. Commission board of directors chairman John Taitano says he intends to call for a board meeting in five days to hear the agency's options.

Attorney Cabot says if the board gives him the green light, he will file a special proceeding action in the Superior Court, asking a judge to find the lawmaker in contempt and assess what sanctions should be imposed against Rector.  Cabot added that the Commission should hold Rector fully accountable for failing to comply with the law.

Rectors attorney, Robert Kutz, is expected to hold a press conference at 1pm.