Opponents won't let Jones forget about ethics complaints

But opponents of the Democratic front-runner say they still question her ethical conduct and don't intend to let the issue fade away.

Friday's unanimous vote by the state Ethics Commission marked the seventh time since 1994 that Jones has fended off charges of ethical misconduct.

Although she was chastised and lectured in a few cases, panel members have never found evidence she broke the law.

In the latest case, commissioners ruled Jones did nothing wrong when she voted in May against a restaurant opposed by a group with ties to her husband.

"The ruling is a win for all Nevadans because the truth prevailed, and now we can continue to discuss the issues that really matter to voters, which is what my campaign is all about," Jones said Sunday.

"Too many candidates are spending too much time slinging dirt and playing political games."

Despite the commission's latest ruling, Jones' Democratic and Republican opponents say they plan to use the ethics issue against her.

Her closest Democratic rival, state Sen. Joe Neal, said the panel's decision shows it treats the wealthy differently.

Jones and her husband, Richard Schuetz, are both wealthy and signed pre-nuptial agreements before marrying in January.

"This has more to do with monied interests than it has to do with fairness," Neal said. "It's more reflective of that, than of her being innocent."

Neal said he's also suspicious of the commission because its members are appointed by Democratic Gov. Bob Miller, who "has an interest in Jan Jones winning the primary." The governor and Legislature each appoint three members.

Republican gubernatorial favorite Kenny Guinn couldn't be reached for comment. But Guinn campaign manager Pete Ernaut indicated the campaign plans to raise the ethics complaints as an issue, even though Jones has been cleared in all cases.

Aaron Russo, Guinn's leading contender in the GOP primary, said he also would use the ethics complaints against Jones if he becomes the nominee.

"Having those seven complaints creates an aura," Russo said. "A number of voters think they (the seven complaints) are problematic with her."

But Jones campaign manager Denise Rawles said Jones would stick to the issues and not be distracted by her opponents.

"If this baseless complaint was an attempt to weaken Jan Jones, then it backfired miserably because she is stronger and more determined than ever," she said.

The latest complaint was filed by Steve Miller, who lost to Jones in the 1991 mayoral race.

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