Speaker appeals order to testify

LANSING (AP) — House Speaker Kevin Cotter has filed an appeal objecting to a judge’s order that he testify in the criminal case of two former lawmakers who were forced from office last year.

As expected, the Republican leader asked an Ingham County circuit judge last Friday to reverse District Judge Hugh Clark Jr.’s last Thursday ruling.

Cotter says he cannot be compelled to testify this week because of the Michigan Constitution’s speech and debate clause. He also asserts his testimony would violate state law and the separation of powers since expulsion matters are reserved solely for the Legislature.

Former Republican Reps. Todd Courser, who resigned, and Cindy Gamrat, who was expelled, were later charged with felony misconduct in office related to an attempted cover-up of their extramarital affair. Courser also faces a perjury charge.