CLEVELAND (AP) — Republican congressman Jim Renacci (reh-NAY'-see) is still pursuing an appeal that asks the state to refund more than $350,000 of the $1.4 million in back taxes and penalties he was assessed in 2008.
The Plain Dealer of Cleveland reports that Renacci, a Republican from Wadsworth, argues that legitimate tax planning isn't grounds for the tax commissioner to impose a penalty on him and his wife, Tina.
The case stems from the Renaccis' 2000 tax return. Reports on it prompt a Renacci campaign spokesman to suspect election-year politics have caused the issue to resurface. Spokesman James Slepian said Democratic U.S. Rep. Betty Sutton is "dusting off this ridiculous, nonsensical attack" in desperation. She faces Renacci in a redrawn district.
