Graham faces DWI fallout

By Juana Summers

Published Oct. 23, 2007

Missouri Sen. Chuck Graham, D-Columbia, was arrested on Saturday on suspicion of driving while intoxicated after a minor accident. Following the accident and arrest, state Republicans are calling for Graham to resign

from his seat in the state Senate.

Columbia Police Chief Randy Boehm said Graham was arrested on Oct. 20, at approximately 9:47 p.m. at the intersection of Green Meadows Road and Bethel Street.

"It is my understanding that Mr. Graham's vehicle had collided with the rear of a vehicle at that intersection and then knocked that vehicle into a third vehicle," Boehm said.

Graham refused to submit to a Breathalyzer test at the scene and was arrested on suspicion of driving while intoxicated, Boehm said.

Boehm said he thought there was eventually blood drawn.

"And then I believe there was also a urine sample collected," he said.

A news release from Graham's office stated that Graham was injured in an automobile accident at the intersection. The release also stated that Graham was taken into custody "while exchanging insurance information."

Graham was treated at University Hospital, according to the news release, and released on Oct. 21.

Missouri Democratic Party spokesman Jack Cardetti referred all questions about the matter to Graham's office.

Graham and his spokesman Ted Farnen could not be reached for comment, as his office was closed on Monday.

Missouri Republican Party spokesman Paul Sloca said Graham should resign from the Senate because of his arrest.

"We believe that the Democrats should support and call for that resignation," Sloca said.

Sloca said he believes Graham should resign because while driving intoxicated Graham endangered the public.

"Other members of the public, including his constituents, were put at risk by his behavior," Sloca said. "This is unacceptable for an elected official."

Sloca also called for an apology from Graham for his behavior.

Prior to an announcement made by Rep. Ed Robb, R-Columbia, that he would run for re-election, there were rumors that he might challenge Graham for the 19th District Senate seat. Graham is up for re-election next year.

But Robb said Graham's arrest would "probably not" change his plans for running.

"I'm just glad that no one was hurt or injured or killed," Robb said.

Former Rep. Chris Kelly is challenging Robb for Robb's seat in the 24th district. Kelly left the Missouri General Assembly before term limits were instated, so his prior terms in the General Assembly were not counted.