Wow.

I’m shocked that I’m about to type the following statement: nice work, Patriot News.

Nice work, indeed, on this piece raising questions on how Linda Thompson can afford a new-ish Mercedes Benz, rent on her apartment and living expenses on a $20,500 annual City Council salary. (I’m BROKE and earn more than that)

Here’s the link:

And my personal favorite excerpt of the piece-

On Wednesday, in an earlier interview, Thompson indicated that her car was a gift from a brother. (One of her brothers, Steven Crawford, received a settlement from the state after his murder conviction was overturned and he was released from prison in 2002 after 28 years.)

Question: You indicated yesterday that your car was a gift from your brother. The statement of financial interest lists an 8.25 percent Chase Auto Financial Loan. Is that for your Mercedes, or do you own another car?
Thompson: “I never stated my car was a gift from my brother. Quote me accurately. I stated that my brother was very generous to me. The auto loan indicated in my statement of financial interests is for the vehicle which I currently drive.”

Following Gov. Ed Rendell’s endorsement of Thompson at the state Democratic headquarters on Wednesday, Thompson was asked about her car and sources of income. Here is how she answered:

Question: If you get $20,500 from City Council and a Mercedes far exceeds that amount of money ….
Thompson: “I have a brother that was very, very kind to me,” she said. “Period.”