The Nation - News from May 15, 1988

Impeached Gov. Evan Mecham won a spot on Arizona’s delegation to the Republican National Convention and tried to put aside concerns that his presence would detract from nominating a presidential candidate. “I can’t imagine being the center of any controversy,” said Mecham, whose tumultuous 15 months as governor ended April 4 when he was convicted by a state Senate court of impeachment. He was one of 18 at-large delegates to the national convention selected by 700 delegates to the state party convention in Phoenix. Mecham faces trial this week on charges of concealing a $350,000 campaign loan. His brother and 1986 campaign treasurer, Willard Mecham, will be tried on similar counts.