Pocono News Section

Family of Senator Rhoades Talks to Eyewitness News

Family of Senator Rhoades Talks to Eyewitness News - Wednesday, October 29, 2008 at 5:35PM EST

Reported by: Andy Mehashick
Wednesday, Oct 29, 2008 @ 05:35pm EST
POTTSVILLE, SCHUYLKILL COUNTY- The family of the late Senator James Rhoades of Schuylkill County is speaking out for the first time since his tragic death nearly two weeks ago. The longtime lawmaker was running for re-election. And his family has a message for his supporters.

Senator Rhoades was a larger than life person and a respected lawmaker. His campaign goes on even, in death. His name is still on Tuesday's ballot. His family is urging those who supported him and loved him to cast one more vote for their father.

Ali Rhoades Hobbs and her husband Christoper spoke on behalf of her family. They are coping with the tragic and untimely death of her father, State Senator James Rhoades. He was killed in a car crash nearly two weeks ago. They say the love and support shown to them has been unbelievable.

"We knew our dad was a good guy. We knew he was hard working and loving. We appreciated him. What overwhelmed us so much, so many people remembered, and share that appreciation, the little things or big things. They said thanks for sharing your dad with us," she said.

Senator Rhoades always put family first, and they believe he felt that his constituents were his family. "We are asking everyone to go out, please vote one last time for Jim Rhoades. My family and I got together after we knew mom would be okay. That was our decision first," she said.

If Rhoades is re-elected, then a special election would be held. "Simply because the senator is gone he is not forgotten. Vote one last time so his voters have a choice," added Christopher.