Pennsylvania Democrat Joe Brennan Ending Re-Election Bid After Drunk Driving And Wife Beating Allegations

Democratic Pennsylvania state congressman Joe Brennan was arrested on wife beating and drunk driving in an attempt to dodge arrest charges. The wife beating and drunk driving allegations prompted Joe Brennan to end his re-election campaign. The Pennsylvania Democratic Party has until Friday to select a new candidate, the Washington Free Beacon reports. Joe Brennan represented the 133rd District in Pennsylvania.

Joe Brennan issued a statement about his decision to remove his name as the Democratic candidate for congress, noting his regret for the “entire” situation. Democratic congressman Brennan stated that while he understands the public interest in the drunk driving and wife beating charges due to his public office, he also hopes his family’s need for privacy is respected. Joe Brennan also discussed his ongoing recovery and maintains how difficult the process has been, calling it the hardest thing he has had to do in his life.

Brennan allegedly physically attacked his wife while drunk and then got in his vehicle and drove away, The Associated Press relates. Norma Jane Brennan told Fountain Hill law enforcement officers that her husband Joe Brennan hit and choked her then wrestled her to the ground. Brennan was pulled over just a few blocks from his home in Lehigh County where he allegedly tested twice the legal blood-alcohol limit.

The Democrat will not be stepping down from office until his current term expires on November 30. Joe Brennan’s Republican challenger Dave Molony stated earlier this week he will not take advantage of the drunk driving and wife beating allegations for political gain, according to the Morning Caller . Joe Brennan served as a Democratic congressman for three terms. Norma Brennan has filed for a protection order from her husband, Joe Brenna, The Express Times notes.