Pepper is 'free to explore other political options'

Even Democratic party leaders were caught off guard by Councilman David Pepper's appearance in Columbus Tuesday for a job interview -- especially considering the job is the one held by his former mayoral opponent, state Sen. Mark Mallory.

So what does Mallory think of this development? Gongwer News Service caught up with Mallory in Columbus Tuesday:

Sen. Mallory, who will be sworn in for his new job on Dec. 1, said he is not endorsing any of the candidates as his successor. "Each of the candidates has a certain strength," he said, noting that some also have weaknesses. He said the remaining caucus members should take into strong consideration any candidate's ability to be successful at the next election.

The lawmaker, who will be recognized on the Senate floor Wednesday, said he's not bothered by Mr. Pepper's application for the job. "He's free to explore other political options," he said.