Wright says he won’t resign

RALEIGH (AP) — State Representative Thomas Wright says he's not leaving office.

The New Hanover County Democrat's comment was in response to a call from House Speaker Joe Hackney that he should resign from office.

It was about a week ago that state elections officials asked prosecutors to investigate Wright's campaign finances. Evidence presented May 15th to the State Board of Elections showed Wright may have spent more than 240-thousand dollars in campaign donations on personal expenses.

Wright hasn't been charged with any crimes. He says he won't step down and that he's disappointed with Hackney for rushing to judgment.

Wright says he declined to testify at last week's hearing he had never seen the allegations before the meeting.

Speaking to The Associated Press in a telephone interview last night, he wouldn't discuss details but says he'll provide information later showing he didn't spend campaign money for personal items.