O'Malley Plans To Address Donations From Stewart

ANNAPOLIS, Md. (AP) -- Gov. Martin O'Malley says he plans to address donations given to him by Richard Stewart, who pleaded guilty this month to failing to pay $4 million in employment taxes.

But the governor, a Democrat, told reporters on Thursday he's not sure how he will address the contributions. He also noted the money has already been spent.

The Maryland Republican Party has called on O'Malley to return $7,500 in contributions from Stewart.

Lt. Gov. Anthony Brown said through a spokesman he would return donations. A spokesman for Rep. Elijah Cummings said the congressman would donate contributions to charity.

O'Malley said Thursday, "we'll do the same thing," without specifying.

O'Malley appointed Stewart to an advisory panel on legislative redistricting. The governor has said he didn't know Stewart faced legal problems.

(Copyright 2011 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)